My Ordinary Days
布袋寅泰 Lyrics

The lyrics of 布袋寅泰's song "My Ordinary Days" paint a vivid picture of the everyday routine and emotions experienced by the singer. The song starts with the description of the singer's antique alarm clock that seems to break three times a week, symbolizing the imperfections and challenges faced in daily life. The scene continues with the singer eating burnt toast while searching for their jacket, signaling a rushed and busy morning before a meeting. The cloudy weather and impending rain evoke a sense of urgency and unease, highlighting the pressure and stress of modern life.

As the lyrics progress, the singer reflects on the envy they feel towards playful squirrels in the garden, a moment of longing for simplicity and freedom amidst their relentless daily routine. The mention of a science magazine article on the Nazca lines during lunchtime hints at a desire for intellectual stimulation and curiosity in the midst of mundane tasks. The approaching birthday and memories of a past relationship with a girlfriend add a touch of nostalgia and bittersweetness to the narrative.

The chorus delves into themes of longing, regret, and the passage of time. The singer expresses a desire to reach out to someone they miss, but it is too late, emphasizing the inevitability of change and the inability to turn back the clock. The reference to time as a magician who can turn sad memories into cherished ones adds a layer of introspection and acceptance of life's complexities. The lyrics convey a profound sense of loneliness and resignation, as the singer realizes that some wounds cannot be healed and some experiences remain etched in memory.

The final verses suggest a yearning for new beginnings and a break from the monotony of daily life. The imagery of turning the knob on an antique alarm clock at midnight symbolizes a desire to escape the constraints of routine and embark on a new journey. The repetition of days of the week and the metaphor of time flowing like a river reinforce the cyclical nature of life and the eternal forward march of time. The song concludes with a call to embrace the ordinary nights of spring, summer, autumn, and even winter, finding joy in the accumulation of life experiences and dreams.

Overall, "My Ordinary Days" by 布袋寅泰 encapsulates the struggle to find meaning and connection in the midst of routine, the beauty of memories that linger, and the hope for a brighter tomorrow despite the inevitable passage of time.