Meaning of "Downhill Racer" by Everything But The Girl

The lyrics of "Downhill Racer" by Everything But The Girl delve into the themes of success, failure, vulnerability, and resilience. The opening lines portray a sense of optimism from a high vantage point, looking into the distance, but as the journey progresses downhill, there is a rapid decline. The speaker acknowledges the difficulty of letting go of past achievements and the inevitability of facing setbacks. The mention of almost liking someone indicates a fleeting connection or admiration that dissipates as they struggle, showing moments of weakness. The references to feeling hopeless and looking over one's shoulder signify insecurity and a fear of being left behind. The advice to ride the backlash and stage a comeback offers a glimmer of hope and resilience, but the cautionary tale of Lazarus alludes to the possibility of failed attempts at revival. Overall, the lyrics explore the bittersweet nature of success, the challenges of resilience in the face of failure, and the uncertainty of second chances.