The Bold Arrow Of Time

Tame Impala's 'The Bold Arrow Of Time' is a contemplative exploration of the nature of time and its perception. The lyrics, though minimalistic, evoke a sense of timelessness and introspection. The opening lines, 'Overhead ether flow, moment / colours run. Time, so slow,' paint a vivid picture of a surreal, almost dreamlike state where time seems to stretch and bend. This imagery suggests a moment of heightened awareness or altered perception, where the usual flow of time is disrupted.

The repetition of the phrase 'I've never seen the arrow of / time fly, so, slow' emphasizes the unusual experience of time moving at a different pace. The 'arrow of time' is a concept from physics that represents the one-way direction of time from the past to the future. By describing it as flying 'so slow,' the song hints at moments in life where time feels almost suspended, allowing for deep reflection and a sense of being present in the moment.

The final line, 'And time flows on,' brings the listener back to the inevitable passage of time, despite the moments where it feels slowed down. This line serves as a reminder that no matter how we perceive time, it continues to move forward. Tame Impala, known for their psychedelic rock sound, often delves into themes of consciousness and perception, and 'The Bold Arrow Of Time' is a perfect example of this. The song invites listeners to ponder their own experiences with time and how it shapes their reality.