Song meaning of All Cleaned Out by Elliott Smith

The song "All Cleaned Out" by Elliott Smith portrays a story of a person struggling with their emotions and relationships. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist is a heavy drinker, finding temporary happiness in being the center of attention and making others laugh. However, underneath the surface, they are facing inner turmoil.

The line "Here come your pride and joy, the comic little drunk you call your boy" implies that the person takes pride in their role as the life of the party, but their behavior is fueled by alcohol. The phrase "making everybody smile" illustrates their desire to please others and be admired. However, as the song progresses, it becomes evident that this facade is not sustainable.

The mention of "makeup running down" and "all cleaned out" suggests a moment of vulnerability and exhaustion. The person is no longer able to conceal their true emotions, and their self-destructive behavior catches up with them. They push people away, claiming they don't want anyone around, possibly out of fear of being exposed or rejected.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of self-doubt and the struggle to distinguish between valuable connections and shallow ones. The line "Wearing clothes that clash, wondering is this treasure, is this trash, still trying to decide" highlights the confusion and uncertainty that the protagonist experiences in their relationships.

Overall, the song conveys a sense of internal conflict and the consequences of relying on external validation. The protagonist's coping mechanisms, such as heavy drinking, are revealed to be inadequate, leading to feelings of emptiness and disillusionment. The song offers a sobering reflection on the importance of genuine connections and the need for self-examination in navigating relationships and one's own emotions.