Hourglass

Alice Chater's song 'Hourglass' delves into the emotional turmoil of a relationship on the brink of ending. The recurring imagery of the hourglass symbolizes the passage of time and the inevitability of change. The hourglass, standing on the edge of the night, represents a moment of transition, where the singer is caught between holding on and letting go. This metaphor is powerful, as it captures the essence of time slipping away, much like the relationship she is mourning.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of loss and longing. The shadow lying where the loved one used to be and the crying windowpane evoke a sense of emptiness and sorrow. The photographs staring back and haunting dreams further emphasize the lingering presence of memories that refuse to fade. The lavender leading her love into sleep suggests a desire for peace and escape from the pain, yet the struggle to move on is palpable.

Chater's repeated plea, 'Don't make it so hard, make it easy not to behave,' reveals a conflict between wanting to hold on to the past and the need to move forward. The imagery of 'two ships in the night' and 'shadows in the mirror' highlights the disconnect and the feeling of being stuck in a liminal space. The song captures the bittersweet nature of love and loss, where time becomes both a healer and a reminder of what once was. The haunting melody and evocative lyrics make 'Hourglass' a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the heartache of letting go.