So, which songs?

I have been listening to all the Richey-era songs and follwoing the words in the CD inserts and have chosen the lyrics that say the most about Richeys state of mind though it must be noted that many lyrics were co-written with Nicky Wire (the bassist).

These are the song titles and links to the lyrics.

4st 7lb -This song gives a very harrowing account of a young girl's battle with anorexia and shows Richey's understanding of inner torment and mental disorder.
http://www.lyricsfreak.com/m/manic+street+preachers/4st+7lb_20087707.html

Yes - This very graphic song shows Richey's contempt for a world where people are exploited and so many people live in unfavourable conditions.
http://www.lyricsfreak.com/m/manic+street+preachers/yes_20087719.html

Drug Drug Druggy - A very good account of Richey's addiction.
http://www.sing365.com/music/lyric.nsf/Drug-Drug-Druggy-lyrics-Manic-Street-Preachers/684A982E07E04D8448256A48002E42A8

Spectators of Suicide - Another song portraying his pessimistic view of the modern world.
http://www.sing365.com/music/lyric.nsf/Spectators-Of-Suicide-lyrics-Manic-Street-Preachers/7C49131D67A83C6D48256A48002CEA21

Die In the Summertime - Richey's inner turmoil.
http://www.lyricsfreak.com/m/manic+street+preachers/die+in+the+summertime_20087709.html

Faster - Written by Richey about self-harm. This is similar to DITS and 4st 7lb
http://www.lyricsfreak.com/m/manic+street+preachers/faster_20087605.html

Me and Stephen Hawking - I chose this as it shows Richey when he is much mellower and free from drugs and alcohol, it's the closest he comes to being light-hearted.
http://www.sing365.com/music/lyric.nsf/Me-And-Stephen-Hawking-lyrics-Manic-Street-Preachers/EED132F92101ECB8482575B40013B716

Life Becoming A Landslide - This is Richey's general take on life and importantly his views on love and growing up.
http://www.sing365.com/music/lyric.nsf/Life-Becoming-A-Landslide-lyrics-Manic-Street-Preachers/E8D4482029036FE948256A48002E48BA

These are the lyrics I will focus on but I will also not discount the use of other lines and quotes from Richey.

My next step will be to timeline Richey's life to see how he would have been at the times of writing.