Quarter Past Midnight

Bastille's 'Quarter Past Midnight' is a vibrant track that captures the essence of living in the moment and the recklessness that often accompanies nocturnal adventures. The song opens with a scene of the city at night, alive and pulsing with energy. The lyrics 'It's a quarter past midnight as we cut through the city' set the stage for a narrative that unfolds in the late hours, suggesting a time when inhibitions are lowered and the potential for spontaneous decisions is high.

The recurring theme of 'running through a red light' symbolizes a deliberate choice to ignore warnings and societal norms, embracing the thrill of the present. This metaphor extends to the broader idea of trying to 'burn the night away,' which reflects a desire to live intensely and without regard for the consequences. The mention of 'Love Will Tear Us Apart' is a nod to the iconic song by Joy Division, hinting at the bittersweet nature of these fleeting moments and the potential for heartache that comes with such abandon.

Amidst the revelry, there's an undercurrent of introspection and a plea for help in piecing together the fragmented experiences of the night. The song touches on the ephemeral nature of life and the human tendency to chase after elusive goals, often at the expense of appreciating what we already have. The line 'We want the bodies on the billboards, not the lives underneath them' suggests a critique of society's obsession with superficial images over genuine human experiences. Overall, 'Quarter Past Midnight' is a reflection on the paradox of seeking meaning in the midst of chaos and the universal quest for connection and understanding in our lives.