Meaning of "Time" by Hootie & The Blowfish

The lyrics of "Time" delve into the complex relationship between the passing of time and its effects on the individual. It captures both personal and societal struggles associated with time. The opening lines express a sense of frustration and confusion with time, as if it is a punishing force that takes away dreams and leaves the narrator feeling lost and abandoned. It likens time to a friend who walked away, suggesting a feeling of betrayal and longing for something that is beyond the individual's control.

The chorus poses a question to time, as if seeking guidance and understanding. The narrator desires to learn about tomorrow, hoping to uncover the mysteries of pain and sorrow that time brings. However, there is a certain skepticism maintained throughout, as the lyrics undermine the concept of time. The phrase "tomorrow's just another day" suggests a disbelief in the significance of time itself. The repeated statement "And I don't believe in time" echoes this skepticism and defiance, indicating a refusal to succumb to the constraints and power of time.

The song also touches upon societal issues, highlighting the senseless violence and tragic consequences caused by time passing. The mention of "children killing in the street" and "dying for the color of a rag" emphasizes the destructive nature of time in the context of societal conflicts and division. The plea to wash away the red and blue, symbolizing the colors associated with opposing sides, in the ocean is a cry for peace and an end to the suffering caused by time.

The final verse portrays a sense of vulnerability and acceptance as the narrator reflects on the passage of time. The metaphor of a tree stripped bare by the wind conveys a feeling of being exposed and vulnerable to the passage of time. The acknowledgment that "the past has come and gone, the future's far away" signifies the fleeting nature of time and the importance of living in the present moment. This notion is further reinforced with the statement that "now only lasts for one second." It conveys the idea that time is transient, urging the listener to cherish the present rather than worrying about the past or the future.

Overall, the lyrics of "Time" explore the complexities of time while also addressing societal issues and the individual's relationship with time. It conveys a mixture of frustration, defiance, and acceptance, highlighting the impact of time on both a personal and collective level.