Meaning of "Too Fast For Me" by The Cruel Sea

The lyrics of "Too Fast For Me" by The Cruel Sea delve into the fears and anxieties associated with mortality and the rapid pace of modern life. The song begins by expressing a fear of flying, proclaiming that "Jet plains fly too high / Man wasn't meant to fly." This fear is extended to the prospect of dying in an airplane, as the lyrics wonder whether it's tempting fate to say that it feels like death may come in this manner.

The theme of speed and danger continues with the mention of fast cars, as the lyrics suggest that life is rushing by too quickly. The overwhelming pace of life is highlighted by the sentiment that the protagonist's whole life is "rushing past." There is a sense of impending doom, as the lyrics again wonder if it is tempting fate to say that death may come in a fast car.

Amidst this contemplation of mortality and the rapidity of existence, the lyrics also touch on the paradoxical nature of life. They acknowledge that life may be short, but it can also feel "too long." There are moments of pain where time seems to crawl, yet the majority of life feels stagnant and unchanging. This duality creates a sense of frustration and unease, as the lyrics ponder the conflicting experiences of time.

Despite the overwhelming speed and stagnation of life, the lyrics also suggest a longing to embrace the world and the beauty within it. The protagonist expresses a desire to drive through the countryside and hear the birds sing, indicating a yearning for simplicity and connection with nature. This sentiment reflects a desire to escape the fast-paced and overwhelming aspects of modern society and find solace in the serenity of the natural world.

Overall, "Too Fast For Me" conveys a sense of unease and contemplation surrounding mortality and the relentless pace of life. The lyrics evoke a fear of death, explore the paradoxical nature of time, and express a longing for simplicity and connection amidst the chaos. It serves as a reflection on the fleetingness of life and the struggle to find meaning and solace in an overwhelming world.