The Trial Of The Century

French Kicks' song 'The Trial Of The Century' delves into themes of regret, reflection, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a picture of someone grappling with their past actions and the consequences that have followed. The opening lines, 'Wasn't having it all that day / Having thought I was there is fine,' suggest a moment of realization where the protagonist acknowledges their shortcomings and the illusion of having everything under control. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of personal accountability and the quest for redemption.

The recurring motif of time is evident in lines like 'The hours that go in front of me / Remind it how it used to be.' Here, the protagonist is haunted by memories of better times, juxtaposed with the present reality. The phrase 'The hours of choking century' evokes a sense of suffocation and the weight of time, emphasizing the struggle to move forward while being tethered to the past. The imagery of 'you down in the grass with me' suggests a moment of intimacy and connection that is now lost, further highlighting the theme of longing and regret.

The chorus, 'I blame you / I thank you / I blame you,' encapsulates the complex emotions the protagonist feels towards someone significant in their life. This ambivalence reflects the internal conflict of holding someone responsible for their pain while also recognizing the growth and lessons that came from the experience. The lines 'Wasn't fit to have you / But I will never run and hide' indicate a sense of unworthiness and a commitment to facing the consequences head-on. The song ultimately portrays a journey of self-discovery, where the protagonist confronts their past, acknowledges their mistakes, and strives to find a path forward.