Six Days

DJ Shadow's 'Six Days' is a song that captures the tension and unpredictability of global politics and the human condition in the face of potential disaster. The lyrics take the listener through a week's timeline, highlighting the fragility of peace and the suddenness with which life can change. The recurring phrase 'Tomorrow never comes until it's too late' serves as a haunting reminder of procrastination and the human tendency to delay action until a crisis is upon us.

The song begins with the start of the week, where leaders engage in summit talks, a metaphor for the often futile attempts at diplomacy in a world brimming with conflict. As the week progresses, the lyrics depict a series of events that escalate tensions, culminating in the ominous feeling of impending war. The mention of specific days, such as 'April fools' day,' adds a layer of irony to the narrative, suggesting that the gravity of the situation is often underestimated or dismissed as a joke until the reality hits hard.

The imagery of a 'whistling overhead' and 'a billion candles burn around' evokes scenes of air raids and vigils, respectively, painting a picture of a world on the brink of chaos. The song's atmosphere is one of urgency and a call to action, urging listeners to recognize the importance of the present moment and the consequences of inaction. DJ Shadow, known for his innovative sampling and instrumental hip-hop, uses this track to delve into themes that transcend music, touching on the human psyche and the global state of affairs.