The lyrics of Jimmy Barnes's song "Killing Time" convey a sense of hopelessness, despair, and anger. The song explores themes of feeling trapped, abandoned, and defeated. The opening lines express a lack of faith and hope, with no relief or assistance in sight. The mention of dry fields and lack of water symbolizes a loss of sustenance and vitality. The following lines depict a sense of frustration and resentment. The sun is cursed for its scorching effect on the land, and the teeth that bite the hand refer to those who hinder or harm others' attempts to succeed. The mention of bleeding and death implies a sense of despair and isolation. "It's killing time" is a recurring phrase throughout the song, emphasizing the recurring theme of destruction and despair. It suggests that the situation has reached a breaking point, and there is no way to escape the impending turmoil. The lyrics also delve into the dynamics of toxic relationships. The venomous words mentioned reflect the hurt caused by someone else's actions or words. The absence of sky, sun, moon, and stars suggests a bleak and devoid environment, mirroring the emotional state of the speaker. The feeling of being lost in a storm and unable to navigate conveys a sense of helplessness and being alone in facing the challenges. The line "I will lash out, or I will burn" implies that the speaker has reached a point of desperation and must choose between aggressive actions or self-destruction. The repeated lines of "It's killing time" emphasize the sense of urgency and inevitability. The dam references a breaking point where there is no turning back. The lyrics imply that the speaker realizes the gravity of the situation and sees everything falling apart. The final lines express a plea for freedom and release from the torment of the situation. The phrase "it's you or me" suggests that a final confrontation or decision is imminent. Overall, "Killing Time" explores themes of despair, frustration, and a sense of powerlessness in the face of challenging circumstances. The lyrics depict a tumultuous emotional journey and a desperate plea for liberation.
