Meaning of "Time" by Easy Star All-Stars

The lyrics of "Time" explore the concept of time and how it affects our lives. The song begins by highlighting the mundane and repetitive nature of daily life, where the moments that pass by seem unremarkable and easily wasted. The line "Kicking around on a piece of ground in your hometown" suggests a sense of stagnation and complacency, being stuck in the same place without progress. The lyrics also touch upon the theme of missed opportunities, symbolized by "the starting gun" that goes unheard, leaving the protagonist behind.

As the song progresses, it delves into the realization of time slipping away. The line "ten years have got behind you" signifies the shock of suddenly realizing how much time has passed without making significant achievements or progress in life. The urgency to catch up with time is emphasized with the repeated image of running after the sun, which symbolizes the passing of time. Despite the effort to catch up, the protagonist is reminded of their mortality and the inevitability of death, as they become "shorter of breath and one day closer to death."

The lyrics also critique society's tendency to prioritize busyness and the feeling of not having enough time. The line "Every year is getting shorter, never seem to find the time" conveys the frustration of constantly feeling rushed and unable to fully accomplish goals or fulfill aspirations. The reference to "plans that either come to naught or half a page of scribbled lines" highlights the disappointment of unfulfilled dreams and the fleeting nature of success.

The song concludes with a sense of resignation and a realization that time has slipped away. The phrase "Hanging on in quiet desperation is the English way" suggests a cultural acceptance of a stifled existence, where people resign themselves to a life of quiet desperation and unfulfilled dreams. Finally, the lyrics express a sense of longing for home as a place of comfort and refuge, where one can find solace and warmth amidst the trials of life.

In essence, "Time" serves as a reminder of the preciousness and fragility of time, urging listeners to make the most of each moment and to pursue their dreams before it is too late.