These Days

Jackson Browne's song "These Days" is a poignant reflection on missed opportunities, personal regrets, and the passage of time. The lyrics convey a sense of introspection and melancholy as the narrator walks through life, contemplating the things he failed to do for someone important to him. This theme of regret is a central element, as he acknowledges the moments he had the chance to make a difference but didn't seize them. The repetition of the phrase "these days" underscores the ongoing nature of his reflection and the weight of his past actions on his present state of mind.

The song also touches on the difficulty of moving forward after experiencing loss and failure. The narrator mentions having had a lover and the challenge of risking another relationship, indicating a fear of vulnerability and getting hurt again. This fear is further emphasized by his admission of being afraid to live the life he has created through his music, suggesting a deep-seated insecurity and a sense of having been defeated by life's struggles. Despite this, there is a glimmer of hope as he resolves to keep moving, believing that things are bound to improve.

Browne's lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery, such as sitting on cornerstones and counting time in quarter tones, which evoke a sense of waiting and measuring the passage of time in small, deliberate increments. The plea to not be confronted with his failures reveals a desire to move past his mistakes without being constantly reminded of them. This song captures the universal human experience of grappling with regret, fear, and the hope for a better future, making it a timeless piece that resonates with listeners on a deeply emotional level.