"Sidewalks" by Unfinished Thought is a song with abstract and metaphorical lyrics, so the interpretation of its meaning may vary from person to person. However, here is a possible explanation of the song's story and themes: The song starts with a reflection on past experiences and actions. The line "We saw another sun in the sky take flight" could represent a significant moment or achievement that gave the narrator a sense of hope or accomplishment. However, the realization of the consequences of their actions, symbolized by "the weight of it all," begins to consume the narrator's thoughts and contributes to their personal decline. The next lines mention "following the chains of command" and "shadows on sidewalks that resonate." This could refer to conforming to societal expectations and feeling trapped or controlled by them. The narrator may feel overwhelmed or lost within these expectations, causing a sense of disconnection and inner turmoil. The chorus reflects the narrator's inability to fully understand or accept their current situation. They feel "dialed in" or connected to their past experiences but don't want to admit that they are lost again. This could indicate a struggle with self-awareness and a fear of facing the truth. The lines "the flash of light that held you tight fell down the sky and shook nearby" suggest a sudden and impactful event or relationship that has now ended. The narrator acknowledges that they never considered it strange or questioned it, perhaps indicating a lack of emotional awareness or depth in the past. The repeated mention of "a thousand goodbyes waving on the inside" implies a profound sense of loss and missed opportunities. It could be a reflection on the transient nature of life and the pain of saying goodbye to various aspects or people in one's life. The song concludes with the notion of a "killer wave" going on parade, and the narrator tries to imagine the lives they have saved. This could symbolize the consequences of their actions or decisions, and the weight of responsibility they carry. Yet, they still feel that something doesn't fit and that the time they are spending is meaningless or counterfeit. Overall, "Sidewalks" explores themes of reflection, the weight of one's actions, feelings of being lost or disconnected, and the search for meaning and authenticity in life. The lyrics are open to interpretation, allowing listeners to connect with their own experiences and emotions.
