1000 Times

Sara Bareilles' song '1000 Times' delves into the depths of unrequited love and the emotional turmoil that accompanies it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who is deeply in love but unable to express their feelings openly. The opening lines, 'Back of the room / Looking at you / Counting the steps / Between us,' set the stage for a narrative of longing and distance. The protagonist is physically close yet emotionally distant, counting the steps that separate them from their beloved, symbolizing the emotional barriers they face.

The recurring theme of 'In another life' suggests a sense of resignation and acceptance of their current situation. The protagonist imagines a different reality where they could freely express their love, but in this life, they are confined to silence. The metaphor of 'a hundred and five / Little blades in a line / From your skin to mine' conveys the pain and intensity of their feelings, as if each step closer to their beloved is a small cut, a reminder of the love they cannot fully realize.

The chorus, 'Cause I would die to make you mine / Bleed me dry each and every time / I don't mind, no I don't mind it / I would come back 1000 times,' encapsulates the essence of the song. It speaks to the protagonist's unwavering devotion and willingness to endure any amount of pain for the chance to be with their beloved. The repetition of 'I would come back 1000 times' emphasizes their relentless commitment, no matter how many times they are pushed away or told 'never.' This unyielding love, despite its challenges and heartache, is a testament to the protagonist's deep emotional connection and the lengths they are willing to go for love.

The song also touches on the idea of love as a 'cage,' where the protagonist feels trapped by their unspoken feelings. The lines 'Cause love is a cage / These words on a page / Carry the pain / They don't free it' highlight the internal struggle of holding onto love that cannot be expressed. Despite the pain, the protagonist finds solace in their unwavering commitment, even if it means coming back '1000 times' to face the same heartache. This powerful narrative of unrequited love and relentless devotion resonates deeply, capturing the essence of longing and the human capacity for enduring love.