Routine

Steven Wilson's song 'Routine' delves into the life of a person grappling with profound loss and the struggle to find meaning in the aftermath. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who has lost their children, as evidenced by the references to children's clothes, schoolbooks, and paintings on the fridge. The protagonist is left with the remnants of their children's lives, which they meticulously clean and organize, trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy through routine tasks.

The repetition of daily chores—scrubbing floors, making tea, cooking meals—serves as a coping mechanism for the protagonist. The routine becomes a way to fill the void left by their loss, providing structure and a sense of purpose. The lyrics 'Routine keeps me in line, helps me pass the time, helps me to sleep' highlight how these mundane tasks are essential for the protagonist's mental stability. The routine is not just about keeping the house clean; it's about keeping the mind occupied and preventing it from dwelling on the pain of loss.

The song also touches on the difficulty of letting go. The lines 'Don't ever let go, try to let go' reflect the internal conflict between holding on to memories and the need to move forward. The protagonist is caught in a cycle of remembrance and the struggle to release the past. Steven Wilson's poignant lyrics and melancholic melody encapsulate the emotional turmoil of dealing with loss and the solace found in routine, making 'Routine' a deeply moving and relatable piece.