Three Sheets to the Wind

From Allan Holdsworth Information Center

“Three seems to be a magical age for children. The idea for the title of this instrumental originally was inspired by children. It's that time when they really start to go crazy and their personalities start to develop very fast. They tend to do things with a kind of abandon which reminded me of the old English expression "three sheets to the wind," which is sometimes used when someone behaves that way...”

Hoard notes: during one of the discussions held for this book project, Claire (Mrs. Holdsworth) offered a stern clarification for her husband's explanation of this term. “ It means DRUNK," she said. "Three Sheets To The Wind" is the fast blowing trio instrumental chosen for the opening track of Road Games. It provides the setting for an extended guitar solo.

(Reaching For The Uncommon Chord p. 68)