The song "One Small Day" by Ultravox is about resilience, hope, and finding joy in life despite facing hardships and struggles. The lyrics depict a situation where someone feels overwhelmed by the challenges they are facing ("The stack is high against you") and the pressure that is building up ("the hammer's coming down"). They feel weighed down by their responsibilities and the passage of time ("the time that's yours lies heavy in your hands"). The song refers to a "sentimental friend," which can be interpreted as a metaphor for the inner voice or the support system within oneself. This friend acknowledges that tough times will eventually come to an end ("The fast must reach an end") and reassures the person that they will have another chance to thrive ("Your time will come again"). The chorus of the song emphasizes the desire for a single day where the person doesn't feel overwhelmed or burdened. They long for a day where they can find satisfaction and joy in every moment ("One day where every hour could be a joy to me"). They dream of living life to the fullest and experiencing it in the way it was meant to be lived. The lyrics also touch upon the feeling of abandonment and disappointment from others ("How many times will they walk away"). Despite this, the sentimental friend offers support and promises that the person will not face their struggles alone ("We'll walk as one again"). The song culminates in the longing for a day where the person no longer feels the weight of their emotions or experiences ("One day where I wouldn't feel my senses die"). They wish to see themselves in a positive light and feel the strength of love and connection with others ("Where I could see myself as others do" and "Where I could feel the strength of love at hand"). Overall, "One Small Day" is a song that speaks to the human desire for hope and resilience in the face of difficulties. It encourages the listener to persevere, find joy in the small moments, and believe that a better day is possible.
