Hangin'

Bastille's song "Hangin'" delves into the complex emotions surrounding regret and the passage of time. The lyrics open with a reflection on hindsight, described as a 'wonderful thing' that turns everyone into experts. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how past mistakes and regrets can haunt us, no matter how much we try to move on. The imagery of 'hangin' the past out to dry' and 'stringing up all of your regrets' vividly captures the struggle of dealing with one's past. These regrets are likened to leaves blowing in the wind, a metaphor for how they persistently linger in our minds.

The chorus, with its repeated plea of 'Don't leave me hangin',' suggests a desire for connection and support amidst these struggles. The wind blowing through the leaves symbolizes the relentless passage of time, which continues regardless of our personal battles. This relentless march of time is further emphasized in the lines 'Hindsight's an unhelpful friend' and 'He catches you unaware,' highlighting how the clarity of hindsight often comes too late to change the past but still impacts the present.

The song also touches on the idea of confronting and laying to rest the parts of our past we'd rather forget. The repeated refrain 'I'm coming for you' can be interpreted as a determination to face these regrets head-on, rather than letting them control us. The final lines suggest a resignation to the fact that the wind will keep blowing, and time will keep moving forward, but there's a persistent hope for resolution and understanding. Bastille's blend of introspective lyrics and evocative imagery creates a powerful narrative about the human experience of regret and the passage of time.