Meaning of "Clockwise" by The New Pornographers

The lyrics of "Clockwise" by The New Pornographers seem to delve into the idea of the passage of time and the inevitability of change. The repeated reference to calling things "clockwise" suggests a cyclical nature to events, as if things are destined to happen in a certain way, whether that be struggles in the music industry or personal challenges. The mention of "the valley of lead singers" could allude to the competitive and sometimes cutthroat nature of the music business, where individuals constantly aim to be at the forefront. The idea of "holding the looking glass up to your eyes" could symbolize introspection and self-reflection, possibly realizing one's place in the grand scheme of things. Overall, the lyrics paint a picture of navigating through life's challenges and power dynamics, ultimately coming to terms with the end of something.