John Hiatt's song "Our Time" tells the story of a romantic relationship that has come to an end. The lyrics depict the narrator reminiscing about different moments and experiences shared with their partner. In the beginning, the narrator describes tracing their partner's arms while they lay spread out on the Sunday paper, comparing their appearance to that of an angel ghost. The mention of a crime scene could suggest that their relationship had its tumultuous moments. The song then transitions to a memory of the couple dining with an older couple and surrounded by loving family and friends. This scene takes place in Brooklyn, representing a cozy and intimate setting. The juxtaposition of this warm moment with the previous mention of a crime scene creates a sense of contrast and nostalgia. The lyrics continue to reflect on another memory, where the partner is shown giving dollars to homeless men in the Bowery. The narrator recalls unsuccessfully attempting to convince their partner that the money might be used for other purposes rather than the intended sandwiches. This memory highlights the challenges and differences in perspectives between the couple. The next verse mentions the partner feeding the narrator Chinese takeout on dampened bed sheets, symbolizing their last supper together. The narrator then wakes up in a cold sweat and realizes that they never shared a meal they cooked together. The partner always dismissed the idea, suggesting their lack of interest or investment in the relationship. The song continues with a flashback to the couple's first date in Nashville, where they shared a pupu platter. The partner's enthusiasm for the meal gave the narrator hope for a future filled with shared meals and moments of happiness. However, as time passed, it becomes clear that the partner did not have the same vision. Overall, "Our Time" is a reflection on a relationship that failed to stand the test of time due to different priorities and perspectives. The song evokes a sense of longing and resignation as the narrator looks back on what could have been "our time" but ultimately wasn't.
