It's Five O' Clock
Demis Roussos
Reflecting on Time and Solitude: The Melancholy of 'It's Five O' Clock'
Demis Roussos' song 'It's Five O' Clock' delves into themes of solitude, reflection, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person walking through empty streets at five o'clock, a time often associated with transition, either early morning or late afternoon. This ambiguous time setting adds to the song's introspective mood, as the protagonist is left alone with their thoughts, reflecting on the years that have passed by.
The recurring imagery of walking through empty streets and looking at one's reflection in the window pane symbolizes a deep sense of isolation and self-contemplation. The protagonist finds it hard to believe that the person they see in the reflection is truly themselves, indicating a struggle with self-identity and acceptance. This moment of self-realization is poignant, as it underscores the inevitable changes that time brings and the difficulty of reconciling with one's past.
The night is personified as a friend who offers sympathy and solace to the protagonist. This companionship with the night suggests a comfort found in solitude and darkness, where the protagonist can escape the harsh realities of the day. The night provides hope and a 'little dream,' symbolizing a glimmer of optimism amidst the melancholy. Roussos' emotive delivery and the song's haunting melody further amplify the themes of loneliness and introspection, making 'It's Five O' Clock' a deeply moving piece that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the weight of time and the solace of solitude.