Meaning of "Nowhere Now" by Steven Wilson

The lyrics of "Nowhere Now" convey a feeling of detachment and disillusionment with the world. The opening lines, "Six feet underground, we move backwards now, at the speed of sound, we are nowhere now," suggest a sense of being trapped or confined, unable to progress or move forward. This feeling is further emphasized by the repetition of the phrase "we are nowhere now," highlighting a lack of purpose or direction.

The lyrics also touch upon the concept of wasted time and energy, with lines like "too much time to kill, too much wasted ink." This could reference a sense of dissatisfaction or regret, perhaps for missed opportunities or unfulfilled potential. The notion of not learning from past mistakes is also explored, as the lyrics state, "we had every chance, but we never learn, we just make it worse, what we don't deserve." This suggests a pattern of self-destructive behavior or an inability to break free from negative cycles.

Another significant theme is the absence of love and meaning. The line "the principle of love has no meaning here, 'cause if you don't adhere, better get out while you can" implies a lack of emotional connection or fulfillment. This could reflect a sense of cynicism or disillusionment with relationships or the world in general. The song also alludes to a desire for escape, as the lyrics describe the freedom felt "above the clouds" and the rush of love experienced when detached from the pressures and expectations of society.

In a broader sense, "Nowhere Now" can be seen as a reflection on the human condition. It highlights the struggles and frustrations that many people experience in their lives, such as feeling stuck, wasting time, and longing for something more meaningful. The lyrics convey a sense of yearning for freedom, both physical and emotional, and a longing to find a place where one truly belongs.