Change Of Time

Josh Ritter's 'Change Of Time' is a poetic and introspective journey through the complexities of time, love, and personal transformation. The song opens with a dream sequence where the narrator finds himself swimming under a starry sky, surrounded by the remnants of those who have succumbed to life's challenges. This imagery sets the stage for a meditation on the passage of time and the inevitability of change. The stars, described as 'directionless and drifting,' symbolize the uncertainty and unpredictability of life, while the sirens and thunder hint at the dangers and temptations that lurk in the darkness.

The recurring refrain, 'Time, love, it's only a change of time,' serves as a mantra that underscores the song's central theme: the fluid and ever-changing nature of time and its impact on love and life. The narrator's dream continues with vivid descriptions of rusting ships and saltwater, evoking a sense of decay and nostalgia. The saltwater, though unquenchable, tastes familiar, suggesting that even painful experiences can hold a sense of comfort and recognition. This duality reflects the bittersweet nature of memories and the passage of time.

In the final verses, the dream shifts to a more hopeful and intimate scene, where the narrator envisions new worlds and lands illuminated by moonlight. The imagery of a loved one's shoulder blade and spine as 'shorelines' signifies the discovery of new possibilities and the potential for renewal. Despite the confusion and violence of past memories, the narrator finds solace in the idea that change, though inevitable, can lead to new beginnings. By closing his eyes and continuing to swim, he embraces the journey ahead, accepting that time and love are intertwined forces that shape our lives in profound ways.