Meaning of "Sidewalks" by Story Of The Year

In "Sidewalks," Story Of The Year delves into the theme of nostalgia and the longing to escape the memories and stagnation of a small town. The crumbling bridge and water soaking into rocks symbolize the decay and abandonment of the environment. This physical decay is mirrored by the memories that have been shaken apart and overrun with weeds. The sidewalks, once a familiar and comforting presence, now represent a desire to run away from the streets that hold the weight of past experiences.

The lyrics capture the sentiment of wanting to escape the confines of a hometown and explore new horizons. The front porch becomes a vantage point to watch cars go by, symbolizing the yearning for freedom and the world beyond what is known. The mention of "eighteen blue, twenty-one gray" refers to the age milestones of reaching legal adulthood and being able to drink legally, further emphasizing the desire to break away from the restrictions of youth and venture into new experiences.

The anticipation of driving for the first time is a pivotal moment in anyone's life. It represents independence, autonomy, and the ability to explore the world without limitations. The lyrics capture this excitement and the eagerness to speed away from the familiar, implying a need for change and escape from the stagnant and repetitive routines that define small-town life. The fading sun and passing of days suggest the fleeting nature of youthful experiences and the inevitability of time erasing the memories that once held so much significance.

Overall, "Sidewalks" conveys a powerful sense of restlessness, yearning, and the desire for freedom. It explores the universal theme of wanting to break free from the limitations of one's surroundings, whether physical or emotional. The lyrics resonate with anyone who has felt trapped by their circumstances and longed for new experiences and a fresh start.