Someday
by The Strokes
Summary
"Someday" by The Strokes is a nostalgic look back at the past, mixed with a sense of uncertainty about the future. It captures the struggle of wanting to hold onto good memories while facing the reality of change and relationships.
Full Analysis
The overall theme of this song deals with nostalgia, regret, and the complexities of relationships. The narrator reflects on the "good old days," hinting at a simpler time when life felt full of promise. As he grapples with the present, he acknowledges the difficulties of maintaining connections and the pain that comes with change. There’s a sense of hope, too, as he tries to move forward, even if it’s not easy.
Verse 1
In many ways, still miss the good old days
Someday, someday
Yeah, it hurts to say, but I want you to stay
Sometimes, sometimes
In this verse, the narrator expresses a longing for the past. He misses those carefree moments, hinting that life used to be better. The repetition of "someday" suggests a hope for better times ahead. Yet, there’s a feeling of pain when he admits wanting someone to stay, showing that relationships aren’t always easy. The word "sometimes" adds a layer of uncertainty about what the future holds.
Chorus
When we was young, oh man, did we have fun?
Always, always
Promises, they break before they're made
Sometimes, sometimes
The chorus captures the joy of youth while highlighting how quickly things can change. The narrator remembers the fun times but contrasts that with the disappointment of broken promises. The repetition emphasizes how often this happens, making the listener feel that sense of loss. It’s a bittersweet moment, celebrating the past while acknowledging that life isn’t as simple anymore.
Verse 2
Oh, my ex says I'm lacking in depth
I will do my best
You say you wanna stay by my side
Darling, your head's not right
In this verse, the narrator reflects on a past relationship. His ex’s comment about him lacking depth stings, revealing insecurities. He wants to improve but feels the pressure of expectations. The line about wanting someone to stay hints at a struggle to maintain relationships, suggesting that the other person might not be in the right mindset for commitment. It creates a sense of tension and confusion.
Chorus
I see, alone we stand, together we fall apart
Yeah, I think I'll be alright
I'm working so I won't have to try so hard
Tables they turn sometimes
Here, the chorus shifts slightly, focusing on the idea of standing alone but still feeling connected. There’s a realization that togetherness can sometimes lead to falling apart. But there's also a sense of resilience; he thinks he’ll be alright despite the challenges. The mention of working hard reflects a desire to change and adapt, showing hope amidst the uncertainty.
Bridge
Oh, someday, yeah
No, I ain't wastin' no more time
Trying, trying
The bridge feels like a turning point. The narrator decides he’s done waiting around and wants to take action. There’s a sense of urgency in not wanting to waste time anymore. It’s a moment of clarity, showing determination to move forward and not dwell on the past. This shift adds a hopeful tone, suggesting he’s ready to embrace whatever comes next.
Outro
And now my fears, they come to me in threes
So I, sometimes
Say, "Fate, my friend
You say the strangest things
I find, sometimes"
In the outro, the narrator confronts his fears, which come in overwhelming waves. He talks to "Fate," personifying it as a friend, which adds a unique perspective on how he views life’s unpredictability. The mention of "strangest things" suggests that life often doesn’t go as planned. This ties back to the theme of uncertainty, leaving the listener with a mix of contemplation and acceptance.
Closing Thoughts
"Someday" by The Strokes captures a universal feeling of looking back at the past while wrestling with the present. It’s relatable, with its themes of nostalgia, regret, and the hope for better days. The song balances these emotions, making it a thoughtful piece that resonates with anyone who’s navigated the ups and downs of life and love.
Full Lyrics
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Someday, someday
Yeah, it hurts to say, but I want you to stay
Sometimes, sometimes
When we was young, oh man, did we have fun?
Always, always
Promises, they break before they're made
Sometimes, sometimes
Oh, my ex says I'm lacking in depth
I will do my best
You say you wanna stay by my side
Darling, your head's not right
I see, alone we stand, together we fall apart
Yeah, I think I'll be alright
I'm working so I won't have to try so hard
Tables they turn sometimes
Oh, someday, yeah
No, I ain't wastin' no more time
Trying, trying
And now my fears, they come to me in threes
So I, sometimes
Say, "Fate, my friend
You say the strangest things
I find, sometimes"
Oh, my ex says I'm lacking in depth
Shit, I will try my best
You say you want to stay by my side
Darling, your head's not right
I see, alone we stand, together we fall apart
Yeah, I think I'll be all right
I'm working so I won't have to try so hard
Tables they turn sometimes
Oh, someday
I ain't wasting no more time