Meaning of "Excuses" by Shakey Graves

The song "Excuses" by Shakey Graves explores the idea of how a preoccupation with money and time can hinder one's ability to form meaningful connections and enter into relationships. The lyrics suggest that the narrator is constantly focused on financial matters, emphasizing the importance of perfect change and pinching every penny. This obsession with money seems to consume their thoughts and actions, leaving little room for romance or love.

The narrator's friends are portrayed as terrible and indifferent, never reaching out or showing concern when the narrator is struggling financially. This further reinforces the idea that the narrator's focus on money has isolated them from meaningful relationships. The repetition of the phrase "excuses, excuses" highlights their tendency to make justifications for their lack of emotional availability. They believe they cannot afford to fall in love, using excuses as a defense mechanism to shield themselves from vulnerability.

The concept of time is also significant in the lyrics. The narrator constantly expresses a lack of time for things such as patience, self-improvement, and relationships. They feel out of their league and unable to invest the necessary time and effort into forming a connection with someone else. This fixation on time prevents them from enjoying good times and creating lasting memories.

The phone ringing at the end of the song symbolizes the missed opportunities and potential connections the narrator is longing for. It signifies their desire for someone to reach out and offer them a chance at love, despite their self-imposed limitations. However, the ringing phone also serves as a reminder that time is fleeting, and they might miss out on love altogether if they continue to prioritize money and time over emotional connection.

In summary, "Excuses" delves into the consequences of prioritizing money and time over love and relationships. The song suggests that this preoccupation can lead to isolation, missed opportunities, and a self-imposed barrier against vulnerability. It serves as a reflection on the need to balance financial responsibilities with emotional fulfillment.