Meaning of "Use of Time" by 311

"Use of Time" delves into the perplexing nature of time and its impact on the human experience. The opening lines set the tone by expressing the struggle with words that feel inadequate and don't flow, reflecting the difficulty of expressing oneself and understanding time's elusive nature. The song highlights the partial stoning of the heart, suggesting that waiting for something to start can be emotionally draining. This confusion intensifies as the song explores the speaker's attempt at trying again, signifying a desire for progress or change. However, the repetition of the phrase "confusing use of time" implies that despite efforts to move forward, time remains inexplicable and disorienting.

The lyrics shift to focus on the sound of hearts pounding when the volume is turned down. This line conveys the persistent throbbing of emotions and the overwhelming presence of personal experiences that can drown out everything else. It emphasizes the weight and significance of the passage of time on one's emotional state.

As the song progresses, it introduces the notion of the longest day. This phrase symbolizes a period of stagnation and monotony, where time seems to stretch indefinitely. The repetition of hearing repeating things that were said reflects a sense of temporal loop, echoing the feeling of being trapped in a cycle, unable to escape the confusion and repetition.

The mention of the void and the description of vacancy sounds deepen the exploration of time's enigmatic nature. The speaker struggles to articulate the emptiness they perceive, highlighting the difficulty in grasping time's intangible essence. The song suggests that time can feel like an amorphous void, encompassing both endless possibilities and a sense of nothingness.

Despite the overwhelming confusion and frustration, the repetition of the phrase "But the trying again" carries a glimmer of hope. It implies that despite the perplexing nature of time, there is a belief that perseverance and resilience might bring clarity and resolution. It captures the human tendency to keep striving, even when faced with the complexities and uncertainties of time.