Meaning of "Seventeen Seconds" by The Cure

The lyrics in "Seventeen Seconds" by The Cure explore the transient nature of life and the inevitable fading of emotions. The opening lines suggest the passage of time as it slips away, while the fading light represents the diminishing hope or joy in life. The sense of quiet and coldness further emphasizes the emptiness that has taken over.

The phrases "Feeling is gone" and "Everything is cold now" highlight the loss of emotional connection and the numbness that accompanies it. It implies a state of stagnation, where things are frozen and unchanging. This could reflect a personal struggle with depression or a broader commentary on the human condition where emotions eventually wane and disappear.

The lyrics then delve into the theme of unfulfilled dreams and desires. The dream ending and the wish remaining unfulfilled suggest a disappointment or a sense of longing that goes unresolved. This could be understood as a reflection on the inevitability of unmet expectations and the harsh reality of life.

As the song progresses, the introduction of the girl singing signals a shift in perspective. Her voice serves as a symbol of purity and innocence, contrasting with the bleakness described earlier. The repetition of "Seventeen seconds" serves as a reminder of the brevity of life. Seventeen seconds may symbolize a brief moment, representing how fleeting and fragile life can be.

Overall, the song seems to convey a sense of resignation and acceptance of the transitory nature of life, with its ups and downs, disappointments, and fleeting moments of beauty or happiness. It explores themes of lost innocence, the passage of time, and the fragility of human emotions.