Walking Down A Road

Split Enz's 'Walking Down A Road' is a contemplative journey through time and memory, wrapped in a surreal and almost dreamlike narrative. The song opens with the image of walking down a road lined with roses, a symbol of beauty and perhaps nostalgia. The mention of time standing still suggests a moment of deep reflection, where the past and present blur together. The old man laughing in the shadows could represent wisdom or the passage of time itself, mocking the fleeting nature of life.

The lyrics then shift to a more introspective tone, with the narrator talking to the wind and drinking in the beauty around them. This act of communion with nature highlights a sense of peace and timelessness. However, the narrator admits that despite their best efforts, their thoughts often wander, hinting at an underlying restlessness or dissatisfaction. The imagery of securely drawn window shades and an empty, silent neighborhood evokes a sense of isolation and abandonment, reinforcing the theme of solitude.

As the song progresses, the narrator reflects on advice they received to stay at home, suggesting a missed opportunity or regret. The guide's preaching and the subsequent disappearance into a tiny door with a golden sign symbolize a search for meaning or escape from reality. The final lines, with their mention of 'bare boards and paper walls,' emphasize the fragility and impermanence of life. The song ultimately captures the essence of a journey through time, memory, and self-discovery, wrapped in a hauntingly beautiful and introspective narrative.