Meaning of "Windmills" by Toad The Wet Sprocket

The lyrics of "Windmills" explore themes of frustration, longing, and perseverance. The opening line, "I spend too much time raiding windmills," suggests that the narrator is wasting their time and energy on meaningless endeavors. Windmills, symbolic of chasing illusions or empty dreams, represent a sense of futility and a lack of progress.

The line "We go side by side, laugh until it's right" hints at a sense of camaraderie or reliance on another person. The laughter serves as a temporary distraction from the underlying feelings of frustration and disappointment. The phrase "There's something that you won't show, waiting where the light goes" suggests that there is a hidden truth or revelation that the narrator seeks, but it remains elusive.

The following lines, "Take the darkest hour, break it open, water to repair what we have broken," imply a desire to find a solution and mend what has been damaged. The idea of breaking open the darkness and using water to repair broken things can be interpreted metaphorically as seeking clarity and healing while addressing past mistakes or hurts.

The recurring line "Maybe anyway the wind blows, it's all worth waiting for" reflects the narrator's belief in the value of patience and perseverance. Regardless of the uncertainties, they hold onto hope and find meaning in the waiting.

The later verse, "Pull on the borders to lighten the load, tell all the passengers we're going home," suggests a longing for a sense of belonging and a desire to share the journey with others. The act of pulling on borders symbolizes breaking free from limitations or societal expectations to find a renewed sense of freedom and purpose. The idea of going home could represent finding a place of comfort and acceptance.

Overall, "Windmills" conveys a message of embracing the unknown, finding meaning in the waiting, and persevering through life's challenges. It encourages listeners to question their pursuits, seek the hidden truths, and persist in the face of uncertainty.