Time
Ben Folds Lyrics

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Think of me
Anyway you want
I can be
The problem if that's easier
In your head
Move the pieces around
Things I've said
Turn the memory upside down

And it makes it better I know
But sometimes it's hard to swallow

In time I will fade away
In time I won't hear what you're sayin
In time, but time takes time you know

Tell your friends
The things they wanna hear and see
Start the drums
Band against the enemy

And in time I will fade away
In time I won't care what you say
In time, but time takes time you know

In your head
Move the pieces round
Things I've said
Turn the memory upside down

It might make it better, I know
But sometimes it's hard to swallow

In time I will fade away
In time I won't care what you say

In time, but time takes time you know
Time takes time you know

Overall Meaning

The song "Time" by Ben Folds is a poignant and introspective look into the complexities of human relationships and how time can heal or exacerbate wounds. The lyrics begin with the singer acknowledging their role in a troubled relationship, offering to be "the problem" if it makes it easier for the other person to deal with their own issues. The singer then goes on to suggest that memories and words can be rearranged and reshaped in our minds, often to make them more palatable, if not entirely accurate. The chorus acknowledges the inevitability of time and how it can both soothe and distance us from the pain of the past.

The second verse addresses the idea of external validation and the need to present a certain image to others. The singer suggests that we often tell people what they want to hear and try to present ourselves in a way that pleases them or aligns with their expectations. This could be seen as a commentary on societal pressures to conform or the ways in which we hide our true selves in order to be accepted. The final chorus brings the song full circle, repeating the idea that time will ultimately fade the intensity of our emotions and help us move on, even if it can be a slow and painful process.

Overall, "Time" is a beautifully written and emotionally charged song that captures the complexities of human relationships and the power of time to heal and transform our lives.

Line by Line Meaning

Think of me
Consider my existence

Anyway you want
In whichever way you please

I can be
I am capable of embodying

The problem if that's easier
The cause of difficulties, if that simplifies things

In your head
Within your mind

Move the pieces around
Rearrange the components

Things I've said
Statements I have made

Turn the memory upside down
Invert the recollection

And it makes it better I know
I acknowledge that it may improve the situation

But sometimes it's hard to swallow
However, it can be difficult to accept

In time I will fade away
I will gradually become insignificant