The meaning and story of Ben Jelen's song "Counting Down" revolves around the concept of longing for something more in life and feeling disconnected from the world around us. In the first verse, the lyrics describe the protagonist's dreams and aspirations of a futuristic world with flying cars and cities in space. They have a unique perspective from space, being able to see everything from above, but they feel that humanity fails to truly see and appreciate the beauty of the world. The protagonist is aware of the world's roundness and has knowledge about breaking the speed of sound, symbolizing their intellectual and technological advancements. However, they feel unheard, unable to find anyone who is truly listening to their thoughts and ideas. The chorus emphasizes the mysterious and often elusive nature of finding one's purpose or meaning in life. It takes time to understand and discover our true selves, and leaving behind the familiar and stepping into the unknown can be a lonely journey. The lyrics mention being a "diver" and "sailing out of bounds," representing the protagonist's desire to explore beyond the limitations and boundaries of society. They set their own course and embark on their own path, despite others' expectations or norms. The line "I'm counting down" suggests a sense of urgency or anticipation for something significant or transformative to happen. Throughout the song, there is a reflection on mistakes made and questioning the direction humanity is headed. The lyrics propose calling it love and acknowledging the interconnectedness of all beings, implying that love and unity can bring meaning to life. The second chorus echoes the sentiment that the world can be understood and appreciated, and when the protagonist's achievements are recognized, people start to listen. The final verse contemplates the protagonist's place in the world, feeling small and insignificant in the vastness of the universe. The night sky symbolizes the infinite possibilities and unknowns of life. The lyrics suggest that humanity is united as a collective, yet each person is also unique, represented by the metaphor of being a single star among many. In summary, "Counting Down" is a reflection on the desire to find purpose and connection, the loneliness and challenges faced when leaving behind familiar surroundings, and the hope that love and individuality can bring meaning to life.
