Nothing’s Changed

Passenger's song "Nothing’s Changed" paints a vivid picture of stagnation and the repetitive nature of life. The lyrics are filled with stark imagery, such as "walls are turning yellow like a smoker's tooth" and "cold as a call girl's smile in a phone booth," which evoke a sense of decay and emotional numbness. These metaphors highlight the passage of time and the lack of significant change, despite the ongoing wear and tear of life. The recurring phrase "nothing's changed" underscores a feeling of being stuck in a monotonous cycle, where even the most striking events fail to alter the course of existence.

The song also delves into the complexities of communication and relationships. Lines like "sometimes words don't say enough, sometimes silence says too much" reflect the difficulty in expressing true emotions and the paradox of being close yet distant. This theme is further explored with the imagery of "two little stones in a coke can" and "two lost kids at a fairground," symbolizing the aimless wandering and lack of direction in life. The juxtaposition of these images with the unchanged elements of the environment, such as the sun shining in the playground and water running like a greyhound, emphasizes the contrast between the static and dynamic aspects of life.

Passenger's lyrical style often blends poetic melancholy with a touch of realism, and "Nothing’s Changed" is no exception. The song captures the essence of feeling trapped in a routine, where even the most mundane details, like car alarms ringing or a drunk man singing, become part of the unchanging backdrop. The final lines, "we're just dancers waiting in the wings, ain't no answers blowing in the wind," suggest a sense of resignation and acceptance of life's uncertainties. This poignant reflection on the human condition resonates deeply, making "Nothing’s Changed" a powerful commentary on the unchanging nature of everyday life.