Meaning of "Time Tables" by The Menzingers

The lyrics of "Time Tables" by The Menzingers delve into themes of nostalgia, lost love, and the fleeting nature of relationships. Through vivid imagery and personal anecdotes, the song captures a specific moment in time, bringing to life the emotions and experiences associated with it. The initial attraction and infatuation with the woman are conveyed, highlighting the intensity of their connection, as the narrator falls in love with her before the morning even arrives. But as the song progresses, it becomes apparent that their relationship was never meant to last. The mention of the woman becoming the "queen of the neighborhood parties" while the narrator remains an "unknown boy" hints at a widening gap between them, with the woman moving on to new experiences and people. The reference to the fourth of July signifies a turning point, as fireworks symbolize both celebration and endings. The narrator's realization that they were just friends and their attempts to hold onto the past, offering a dollar for another ride home or something to mix with her Coke, reflect a longing for a connection that no longer exists. The repeated phrase "As time tables suggest, we were only just friends" reinforces the idea that their relationship had its limitations and was bound to fade away. The longing for a conversation or a chance to relive what was lost reveals a sense of yearning for a time that can never be recaptured. Overall, "Time Tables" captures the wistful nostalgia and the ache of lost love, serving as a reflection on the transient nature of relationships and the longing for what once was.