Times
Cecile Believe
Nostalgia and Longing in Cecile Believe's 'Times'
Cecile Believe's song 'Times' is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, longing, and the desire to escape the present. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the artist's emotional state, trapped in a room filled with memories and moods that offer no escape. The opening lines set the tone for the entire song, expressing a deep love that is complicated by physical distance and the painful wish to forget someone who cannot be touched. This sense of confinement and emotional turmoil is a recurring theme throughout the song.
The mention of 'Santal 33' and the year 2017 evokes a specific memory, a time when the artist and their partner were carefree and unaware of the complexities that lay ahead. The reference to 'dancing 'round that sleeping dragon' suggests a period of innocence and bliss, now overshadowed by the harsh realities of the present. The repeated question, 'What the hell is happening?' captures the confusion and disorientation that comes with sudden change, whether it be personal, cultural, or magical. The artist's wish to 'waste these times' with their partner underscores a desire to find solace in shared moments, even if they are fleeting.
The song also delves into the struggle between dreams and reality. The line 'How can I keep being a dreamer when reality's on fire?' reflects the artist's internal conflict between maintaining hope and facing a world that seems to be falling apart. This is further emphasized by the decision to 'double down and watch it all go to hell,' indicating a resignation to the chaos. The lyrics also touch on the power of music and words to evoke emotions, suggesting that melodies can strike a nerve and bring back memories of a simpler, more harmonious time.
Ultimately, 'Times' is a deeply emotional song that captures the essence of longing for the past while grappling with the uncertainties of the present. It speaks to the universal human experience of wanting to hold onto cherished memories and the people who made those times special, even as the world around us changes.