The Outsiders
R.E.M. (Featuring Q-Tip) Lyrics

You took me to the restaurant where we first met
The singer was brought by their partner to the place where they first met.

You knocked a future shock crowbar upside my head
The partner introduced the singer to a new way of thinking that shocked them.

I got caught with the stop of the tick-tock, tick-tock clock When you told me what you knew
The singer was captivated by what their partner shared with them, but also noticed their own anxiety about time passing.

Drawing patterns with a cork on the tablecloth Promising volcanic change of plot Where will this lead us, I'm scared of the storm The outsiders are gathering, a new day is born
The artist is fascinated by their partner's promise of change, but is fearful of what may result from it. They feel like outsiders watching as a new era is ushered in.

I tried to tell you I am not afraid You looked up and saw it all across my face So am I with you or am I against I don't think it's that easy, we're lost in regret
The artist attempts to reassure their partner about their feelings, but knows they aren't that clear themselves. They feel caught up in regret.

Now I'm trying to remember The feeling when the music stopped When you told me what you knew Lost in the moment The day that the music stopped And I do remember you
The singer reflects on the moment of change their partner introduced them to, and remembers how it felt to be lost in it.

The outsiders are gathering, a new day is born Drawing patterns with a cork on the tablecloth Promising volcanic change of plot Where does this leave us - I'm scared of the storm
The singer reiterates their fear of what's to come with the change their partner has promised.

A man walks away when every muscle says to stay How many yesterdays, they each weigh heavy Who says what changes may come? Who says what we call home? I know you see right through me, my luminescence fades The dusk provides an antidote, I am not afraid I've been a million times in my mind This is really just a technicality, frailty, reality
The artist considers the difficulty of change, and questions who decides what's best. They feel exposed to their partner and uncertain about their future, but find strength in the idea of new beginnings.

Uh, it's time to breathe, time to believe Let it go and run towards the sea They don't teach that, they don't know what you mean They don't understand, they don't know what you mean They don't get it, I want to scream I want to breathe again, I want to dream I want to float a quote from Martin Luther King I am not afraid I am not afraid I am not afraid
The artist encourages themselves to find peace, despite feeling misunderstood. They find solace in Martin Luther King's words, and repeat that they are not afraid.

I am not afraid I am not afraid I am not afraid I am not afraid
The artist repeats their newfound confidence to themselves over and over.