Promises

Savage Garden's song 'Promises' delves into the complexities of commitments and the consequences of making promises that cannot be kept. The lyrics explore the delicate balance between desire and reality, emphasizing the importance of honesty and the repercussions of overpromising. The song opens with a plea for indulgence and a warning about the dangers of becoming too forceful, suggesting that pushing too hard can ruin one's chances. This sets the stage for the central theme: the fragility of time and the inevitability of broken promises.

The chorus serves as a powerful reminder that making promises one cannot keep is a dangerous game. The metaphor of time as a thief and the imagery of a fallen king highlight the inevitable downfall that comes from overcommitting. The lyrics suggest that there is a time to be a leader and a time to be more cautious, and failing to recognize this balance can lead to loneliness and regret. The song's narrative warns against the hubris of making grand promises without the ability to fulfill them, as time will ultimately reveal the truth and leave one isolated.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of patience and wisdom, or rather the lack thereof. The lyrics caution against the belief that simply hanging on will justify the wait, pointing out that patience and wisdom do not always go hand in hand. This idea is reinforced by the imagery of floating high with feet not touching the ground, symbolizing a disconnect from reality. The song concludes with a stark warning: if one cannot deliver on their promises, they will end up a 'lonely sorry fool.' This final line drives home the message that honesty and realistic commitments are crucial to maintaining relationships and personal integrity.