Meaning of "These Days" by Glen Campbell

"These Days" is a song about introspection, regret, and the struggle to move on from past failures. The lyrics capture the complex emotions of the narrator as they reflect on their life and the choices they have made. The theme of missed opportunities and unfulfilled obligations is prevalent throughout the song, with the narrator acknowledging their failure to do certain things for someone important to them. This sense of regret is further emphasized in the line, "And all the times I had the chance to." The lyrics convey a sense of melancholy and a longing for redemption.

The song also touches upon the fear of taking risks and the resulting hesitancy to fully embrace life. The narrator expresses their fear of risking another lover, indicating a fear of experiencing further hurt and disappointment. This fear can be seen as a defense mechanism to protect themselves from potential pain, but it also represents a barrier to personal growth and new experiences. The line, "To live the life I have made in song," suggests that the narrator may have created a persona or an idealized version of themselves through their music, but they struggle to fully live up to it in reality. This disconnect between their artistic expression and their personal life adds layers of complexity to the song.

Despite the heavy themes of regret and fear, there is also a glimmer of hope in the lyrics. The lines, "I'll keep on moving / Things are bound to be improving these days," reflect a resilience and a determination to continue forward despite the hardships. The narrator acknowledges that they need to keep striving for a better future and not be consumed by their failures. The repetition of "These days" throughout the song serves as a reminder of the present moment and the potential for change.

Overall, "These Days" is a poignant exploration of human emotions, particularly the struggle to reconcile with the past, the fear of taking risks, and the hope for a better future. The lyrics invite introspection and reflection on our own lives, reminding us of the importance of seizing opportunities and not being held back by our failures.