11am

Incubus' song '11am' delves into the themes of regret, indecision, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a day starting at 7 AM with the mundane sound of a garbage truck, symbolizing the routine and the things discarded in life. The protagonist reflects on past actions and decisions, wondering if it's possible to rewind and start over. This sense of missed opportunities and the desire to go back to the beginning is a central theme, highlighted by the line 'Could we please go back to start?'

As the day progresses to 11 AM, the protagonist remains in bed, enveloped in the consequences of their choices. The bed sheets metaphorically 'shade the heat of choices I've made,' indicating a desire to hide from the reality of those decisions. The lyrics express a deep sense of longing and fear, particularly in the lines 'I never thought I could want someone so much / Cause now you're not here / And I'm knee deep in my own fear.' This suggests a significant loss or separation, amplifying the feelings of regret and indecision.

By 12 PM, the protagonist's dusty telephone rings, symbolizing a connection to the outside world and a glimmer of hope. The anticipation of the call being from a specific person underscores the emotional weight carried throughout the song. The recurring refrain 'Then again, then again, then again / You're always first when no one's on your side' reflects the internal conflict and the cyclical nature of doubt and hope. The song concludes with the realization that the day has come when the protagonist wants 'off that ride,' signifying a desire to escape the emotional turmoil and find resolution.