Meaning of "Time to Move On" by Tom Petty

"Time to Move On" captures the inner struggle and imperative to make a change in one's life. The repetition of the phrase emphasizes the sense of urgency, emphasizing the need to leave the past behind and move forward into the unknown. The mention of "grass is growing" suggests that even though the future may be uncertain, there is growth and opportunity waiting. The broken skyline symbolizes the fractured nature of the narrator's current state, while the references to an airport and a conscientious objector suggest a desire to detach from a certain way of living or thinking. The constant questioning of "which way" signifies the internal conflict and search for a path that leads to something better or forgiveness. The lyrics also touch on the frustration of getting lost in the details and losing sight of the bigger picture, represented by "getting the words wrong" and "wasting the meaning." The mention of "breakin' up a dogfight" and feeling like a "deer in the headlights" amplifies the intensity of the decision to move on and the accompanying fear and anxiety. The repetition in the chorus reaffirms the need for change but also implies that the protagonist might still be hesitant or unsure of what lies ahead. Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of restlessness, the acknowledgement of personal growth, and the necessity of leaving comfort zones for a chance at something better.