Killin' Time

Clint Black's 'Killin' Time' is a poignant exploration of heartache, regret, and the futile attempts to escape emotional pain through alcohol. The song's protagonist is haunted by the memory of a lost love, which he tries to drown out with liquor. However, instead of finding solace, he only finds himself more entangled in his sorrow. The opening lines reveal that despite his efforts to forget, the memory of his love is the first thing that comes to mind when he drinks. This sets the tone for a narrative of a man who is trapped in a cycle of drinking and reminiscing, unable to move on from his past.

The chorus, 'This killin' time is killin' me,' underscores the destructive nature of his coping mechanism. The phrase 'killin' time' is a double entendre, referring both to the act of passing time and the literal toll it takes on his life. The protagonist acknowledges that his drinking is blinding him to reality, and he contemplates the possibility that crossing the line into death might be the only way to end his suffering. This dark contemplation highlights the depth of his despair and the extent to which he feels trapped by his emotions.

In the second verse, the protagonist reflects on his life, admitting that he has been 'lost in yesterday' and has spent his life yearning for a love that is no longer attainable. He expresses a sense of resignation, suggesting that if his current sorrow is the only price he has to pay, he would be content to die. This fatalistic outlook emphasizes the hopelessness he feels and his desire for an end to his emotional pain. Clint Black's delivery of these lyrics, combined with the melancholic melody, creates a powerful and moving portrayal of a man struggling with the weight of his past and the futility of his attempts to escape it.