"At The End Of The Day" by Gilbert O'Sullivan seems to be a contemplative song about various aspects of life and relationships. The lyrics touch upon themes such as driving too fast, not properly valuing borrowed money, the passage of time, and the importance of living in the moment. The song begins with a warning to stay out of trouble and drive safely. It questions the point of risking one's life by driving too fast. This sets a tone of reflection and emphasizes the potential consequences of reckless behavior. The lyrics then shift towards the dynamics of relationships, specifically focusing on how time is spent together. The narrator mentions that if their partner isn't in their room, then they are in theirs, suggesting a sense of loneliness or distance. They ask their partner how they would feel if they were asked to come away, implying a desire for more quality time and closeness. Next, the song delves into the issue of money causing rifts in relationships. The lyrics mention that lending money can often be seen as a gift instead of a loan, leading to tensions and problems within families. The song implies that money can be the root cause of much grief and division. The lyrics then touch upon the superficial nature of appearance and compliments. The narrator appreciates being told they look younger, emphasizing how nice it is to receive positive remarks. However, they also suggest that appearances can be deceiving, as one can appear young but still feel old. The song continues with gratitude for the ability to deflect hateful remarks, suggesting a desire to promote a more positive and uplifting environment. The lyrics imply that kicking someone out of play for making hurtful comments is preferable to engaging in a physical altercation. Lastly, the song emphasizes the importance of living for the moment. The lyrics recommend hopping on a train and experiencing the present because in the end, nothing seems to have changed. The narrator mentions paying for a seat that they don't have, implying a sense of anticipation or longing. Despite this, the song encourages accepting life's unpredictability and finding solace in the present. Overall, "At The End Of The Day" seems to reflect on the complexities and challenges of relationships, the influence of money, the passing of time, and the importance of appreciating the present moment.
