Options Lyrics – Cameron Whitcomb

Options Lyrics Meaning

[Verse 1]
In this verse, the singer reflects on the temptation to fall back into old habits. He wonders if having just one drink would be considered a relapse. The scene is set at a party with old friends, where familiar temptations, like drinking, are within reach. He questions whether he could still survive those choices, acknowledging that living dangerously gives a thrill, but he also wonders if he’s lost his ability to handle it. It’s a moment of inner conflict between the past and the present, with a hint of nostalgia for old, reckless times.

[Chorus]
The singer expresses that he’s aware of his choices, even though he chooses not to act on them. He knows he could reach for the drink, and the possibility of slipping back into that version of himself helps him cope with his current feelings. He contemplates disappearing into that lifestyle for a while, but deep down, he recognizes the danger of it, whether he wakes up alive or not. The key point here is the sense of having “options,” even if he decides not to take them.

[Verse 2]
In this verse, the singer describes the feeling of temptation as a quiet but persistent presence, like a knock on the door. Despite locking himself away from his past, the old “skeletons” (his bad habits and darker thoughts) are still haunting him, calling him back in. He wonders if he could still survive returning to his old ways or if he has lost the ability to handle it. He feels the rush of danger, where he’s closest to feeling alive when he’s on the edge, even though it might drive him mad. This verse delves deeper into the struggle between temptation and self-control.

[Chorus]
This chorus repeats the earlier sentiment but emphasizes that the singer’s awareness of his potential actions helps him cope with the stress or temptation he feels. He knows he could dive back into his past behavior for a short time or longer, escaping his current reality. Still, the underlying truth is that even considering this gives him some comfort, and the “options” are what keep him grounded, even if he doesn’t act on them.

[Bridge]
In the bridge, the singer mentions the ongoing battle between good and bad influences—symbolized by the “devil on his shoulder” and “angel.” This conflict gives him the sense that he has choices in life, whether to lean into the darker side or not. He feels reassured by the fact that his struggle isn’t over, as long as there’s still a chance to make a decision. “Options” symbolize his ability to choose, even if he doesn’t always make the right one.

[Chorus]
The chorus here repeats, showing the ongoing internal struggle. The singer emphasizes how knowing he could make that choice—even if he doesn’t—helps him cope. It’s about knowing he still has control, even if that control is a dangerous option that could lead him down a path of self-destruction. The line “wake up at home or in a coffin” hints at the seriousness of the choices he’s considering, with the idea of “options” being both a curse and a comfort.

[Chorus]
This final chorus repeats the same theme as the earlier ones, focusing on the internal conflict and the temptation to return to old habits. The repetition of “I won’t, but I could” suggests a constant tug-of-war between resisting and giving in. The fact that he has options gives him a sense of agency, even if he knows that acting on them could lead to disaster. The comfort comes from knowing the choice is his, even if it means facing the consequences.