On Time

Wallows' song 'On Time' delves into the complexities of emotional turmoil and the struggle to find clarity amidst confusion. The lyrics paint a picture of a person grappling with grief and the inability to find meaning in simple expressions of love. The repeated phrase 'three words, they don't mean anything to me' suggests a disconnection from the conventional expressions of affection, highlighting a deeper emotional struggle. This disconnection is further emphasized by the recurring defeats in the 'game' of love, indicating a cycle of failed attempts to find solace or understanding in the relationship.

The chorus, 'She's right on time,' serves as a poignant contrast to the narrator's emotional disarray. It suggests that despite the narrator's internal chaos, there is a constant presence that arrives just when needed. This presence, likely a significant other, provides a sense of stability and reassurance, even if the narrator is unable to fully engage or reciprocate. The repetition of 'right on time' underscores the reliability and timeliness of this support, which stands in stark contrast to the narrator's own feelings of being 'almost gone.'

The refrain 'I can't help it if I don't care' reveals a sense of resignation and helplessness. It reflects the narrator's struggle with apathy and the inability to muster the emotional energy to care, despite recognizing the importance of the other person's timely support. This juxtaposition of emotional detachment and the acknowledgment of the other's reliability creates a poignant tension within the song. Wallows effectively captures the essence of feeling lost and disconnected while simultaneously recognizing the value of a steadfast presence in one's life.