Falling Slowly
Eddie Vedder and Glen Hansard Lyrics

The lyrics to "Falling Slowly" by Eddie Vedder and Glen Hansard express the longing and desire for connection with someone, even though there may be barriers preventing that connection from fully manifesting. The opening lines, "I don't know you, but I want you, all the more for that," indicate a powerful attraction to someone despite a lack of familiarity. The singer acknowledges that words often fail to capture the depth of their emotions and they struggle to react to the situation. The line "games that never amount to more than they're meant, will play themselves out" suggests that superficial or insincere interactions will eventually reveal their true nature.

In the chorus, the imagery of a sinking boat is used as a metaphor for a relationship that is in trouble. However, there is still hope expressed in the line "we've still got time." The plea to "take this sinking boat and point it home" signifies a desire to salvage the relationship and find a way back to a place of stability and connection. The lyrics emphasize the importance of making a choice and using one's voice to bring about a positive outcome.

The second verse delves deeper into the personal struggles of the individual. The line "and moods that take me and erase me, and I'm painted black" illustrates the emotional turmoil and the feeling of being lost or overshadowed by negative thoughts and experiences. Following this, the lyrics offer encouragement and support to the person they are addressing, acknowledging their suffering and self-conflict, and stating that it is now their time to win.

The final lines, "take it all, I played the cards too late, now you're gone," convey a sense of regret and loss. The singer acknowledges their role in the situation's outcome, realizing that they missed their chance and the person they desired is no longer with them. The lyrics evoke a feeling of melancholy and reflection on missed opportunities.