Clockwatching

Jason Mraz's song 'Clockwatching' delves into the theme of living in the moment and the urgency of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of two individuals trying to escape the relentless ticking of the clock by immersing themselves in the present. The opening lines, 'Take off both your shoes and clothes I'll follow / Undo corkscrew drink from half of a broken bottle,' suggest a desire to strip away the constraints of daily life and indulge in spontaneous, carefree actions. This sense of urgency is further emphasized with the repeated line, 'Lately we're running out of time, aren't we?' which serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of time.

The song also explores the idea of finding solace and connection in intimate moments. The metaphor of being 'off like an aeroplane' and 'making love on economy' highlights the transient yet intense nature of these experiences. Mraz uses playful and vivid imagery, such as 'licking your postage stamp again,' to convey a sense of intimacy and urgency. The lyrics suggest that these moments, though brief, are precious and worth savoring.

Additionally, 'Clockwatching' touches on the theme of escaping from the pressures and expectations of life. Lines like 'Let's get backwards and forget our restless destination / Let's live in the moment just this time' encourage the listener to let go of future anxieties and focus on the present. The song's closing lines, 'Lady dreamer you might be the soundest sleeper / Tonight sleep tight and build your nest upon my shoulder,' evoke a sense of comfort and security, suggesting that true peace can be found in the present moment and in the company of a loved one.