Meaning of "(Sitting on) The Dock of the Bay" by Tom Jones

The lyrics of the song convey a deep sense of melancholy and resignation, as the protagonist finds themselves in a state of inertia and hopelessness. The act of sitting on the dock and watching the ships come and go symbolizes the passing of time and opportunities that seem out of reach. The repetition of "wasting time" emphasizes the feeling of emptiness and lack of purpose in the protagonist's life. The reference to leaving home and travelling a great distance only to end up sitting on the dock highlights the futility of trying to escape one's problems without actively seeking change. The final lines about resting bones and loneliness reflect a sense of exhaustion and isolation, as the protagonist finds solace in the familiarity of the dock despite the lack of progress or growth. Overall, the song conveys a powerful message about the human experience of feeling stuck in a rut and longing for something more, while ultimately being unable or unwilling to make a change.