The lyrics of "Slow Turning" by John Hiatt reflect on the passage of time and the lessons learned throughout life. The narrator reflects on his childhood dreams and the realization that things don't always turn out as expected. He reminisces about his love for music and the years spent playing the guitar. He also mentions feeling haunted by his past and not receiving what he had hoped for. However, he finds solace in the fact that he now gets what he needs instead. The song shifts to the present, where the narrator is in his car with his children, reflecting on how time has passed. He recognizes that life is short and that death is inevitable. He emphasizes the importance of living with love and cherishing the moments, knowing that there is no cure for the passage of time.

Meaning of "Slow Turning" by John Hiatt

The lyrics of "Slow Turning" explore the theme of the passage of time and the lessons learned throughout life. The narrator reflects on his childhood and the simplicity of his beliefs. He thought that things would come naturally to him, but he soon realizes that life doesn't always work that way. He couldn't tell what was truly his or what he was meant to have, so it didn't matter in the end.

The narrator finds solace in music, his "only pride and joy." Playing the guitar and singing became his way of expressing himself and sharing his thoughts. However, he also mentions feeling haunted by his past. This haunting could represent a sense of regret or the lingering effects of unfulfilled dreams. The line "But nobody said boo to me" indicates a lack of guidance or support, leaving him feeling lost and unsure of his path.

As the song progresses, the focus shifts to the present. The narrator is now in his car with the radio on, surrounded by his children. He finds himself yelling at them for making noise, possibly a reflection of the frustration and pressure he feels in the face of the passing years. The reference to Charlie Watts, the drummer for The Rolling Stones, highlights the contrast between his own life and the success he had aspired to.

The song takes a contemplative turn as the narrator acknowledges the brevity of life. He recognizes that time is short and that death is inevitable, stating, "You're gonna die, gonna die for sure." This realization serves as a reminder to live life fully and to prioritize love and meaningful connections. The line "And you can learn to life with love or without it" suggests that love is essential for a fulfilling life, but ultimately, it is up to the individual to learn how to incorporate it into their existence. The concluding line "But there ain't no cure" emphasizes the fact that time waits for no one, and the passage of time cannot be reversed or remedied.