Meaning of "Best Days" by Blur

The lyrics of "Best Days" by Blur explore the fleeting nature of time and the bittersweet feeling of nostalgia. The song begins by depicting the sound of Bow bells saying goodbye to the last train, signifying the end of a journey or chapter. The repetition of people going over the river and into "leafy nowhere" suggests a cyclical nature to life, where individuals continually seek something or someone to wait for them on the other side. The cabbie's mind is focused on his work, highlighting the monotony and lack of satisfaction in his job. He picks up the "London yo yo's," implying people who are caught up in the fast-paced city life and constantly moving up and down Soho.

The refrain "Other people wouldn't like to hear you, If you said that these are the best days of their lives" suggests that the narrator believes that these are indeed the best days, even if others may not understand or appreciate it. The song challenges the idea that the best days are always in the past or yet to come, encouraging the listener to embrace the present and find joy in the current moment.

The mention of Trellick Towers, a high-rise estate in London, adds to the sense of transience and impermanence. The narrator knows that their partner will leave in the morning, emphasizing the passing nature of relationships and the ache of separating from someone.

The imagery of being in hotel cells, listening to dial tones and cable moans, portrays a sense of disconnection and loneliness. The protagonist's mind wanders as he drinks and talks, indicating a desire to escape from reality. However, he ultimately finds himself disconnected and sleepwalking back home, highlighting the inability to truly escape one's circumstances.

The final repetition of "Other people wouldn't like to hear you if you said that these are the best days of our lives" emphasizes the individuality of one's experience. The song suggests that it is important to find and cherish the best days in our own lives, even if others may not understand or appreciate them.