Setting Sun

Eskimo Joe's 'Setting Sun' is a poignant exploration of time, youth, and the inevitable passage of life. The song opens with the narrator expressing a sense of impatience and frustration, having waited too long for the night to come so they can accomplish their goals. This waiting symbolizes a broader existential struggle, where the 'sun' represents the relentless passage of time and the 'night' signifies a moment of respite or opportunity.

The recurring line, 'And if I see you waiting for the setting sun, it will never come,' suggests a futile longing for a moment that may never arrive. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for waiting for the perfect moment to act or change, which often leads to inaction and missed opportunities. The idea of being 'forever young' if the setting sun never comes adds a layer of irony, as it implies that clinging to youth or waiting for the right time can prevent one from truly living.

The imagery of ice melting into puddles and the reference to drinking water to stop the pain introduces themes of transience and the temporary nature of relief. The song also touches on the fear of the future and the haunting nature of the past, encapsulating a universal human experience. The line, 'If you're scared about the future, I'm scared about the past,' highlights the different ways people cope with the passage of time and their anxieties about it. Ultimately, 'Setting Sun' is a reflective piece that encourages listeners to seize the moment and not be paralyzed by the fear of time slipping away.