Inertia (Acoustic)

AJR's 'Inertia (Acoustic)' delves into the feeling of being stuck in life, unable to move forward despite the desire for change. The song opens with the protagonist reflecting on their unchanged habits, like wearing the same skinny jeans since they were fifteen. This symbolizes a resistance to change and a comfort in the familiar, even if it no longer serves them. The mention of friends chasing their dreams contrasts sharply with the protagonist's own inertia, highlighting a sense of stagnation and self-doubt.

The chorus captures the essence of this inertia, describing the protagonist as an 'object in motion' who has 'lost all emotion.' This metaphor suggests a mechanical existence, moving through life without purpose or direction. The line 'I was gonna save the planet, but today I got plans' underscores the internal conflict between grand ambitions and the reality of everyday life. The protagonist acknowledges their limitations, accepting that they are 'right where I am,' both physically and metaphorically.

In the second verse, the song explores the theme of inertia in relationships and personal goals. The protagonist stays in an unfulfilling relationship out of convenience and fear of change. Similarly, they express a desire to move out of their town or start working out but are held back by comfort and laziness. The repeated refrain of 'inertia' serves as a reminder of the protagonist's struggle to break free from their current state. Ultimately, the song is a poignant reflection on the human condition, capturing the tension between aspiration and reality, and the difficulty of overcoming inertia to achieve personal growth.