11:11

Ben Barnes' song '11:11' is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and selfless wishes. The title itself, '11:11,' refers to the time often associated with making wishes, setting the stage for a narrative filled with hope and longing. The lyrics convey a sense of timelessness and the paradox of being close yet distant, as seen in lines like 'It's both always but never our time' and 'You're always but never really mine.' This duality captures the essence of a relationship that exists in a liminal space, where the connection is felt deeply but never fully realized.

The song's emotional core lies in the repeated wishes for the other person's happiness, freedom, and fearlessness. Barnes expresses these wishes without any selfish desire for reciprocation, highlighting a pure form of love that prioritizes the well-being of the beloved over personal gain. The refrain 'I wish for you to be happy / I wish for you to be free / I wish for you to be fearless' underscores this selflessness. The singer's reluctance to wish for the person to be his ('And I won't wish to be yours or for you to be mine') further emphasizes the depth of his unconditional love.

Metaphorically, the song uses imagery like 'You stopped my heart from fifty feet' to illustrate the powerful impact the beloved has on the singer. This line suggests an immediate and profound emotional reaction, akin to love at first sight. The recurring theme of the soul being kept by the beloved ('And when I sleep my soul you'll keep') adds a layer of spiritual connection, suggesting that the bond transcends physical presence. The song concludes with a hopeful yet resigned tone, acknowledging the possibility of a future together while remaining content with the act of wishing for the other's happiness.