Layover

In 'Layover,' Before We Forget delves into the emotional turbulence of waiting and longing, using the metaphor of an airport layover to explore themes of heartache, uncertainty, and hope. The song opens with the protagonist sitting in an airport, a place often associated with transitions and waiting. This setting becomes a powerful symbol for the emotional state of the narrator, who is grappling with a sense of wasted time and unresolved pain. The lyrics, 'Why can't I shake this feeling / That time won't heal this pain,' suggest a deep-seated sorrow that lingers despite the passage of time.

The chorus introduces a dialogue between the head and the heart, highlighting the internal conflict between rational thought and emotional desire. Lines like 'My head says you feel it (my heart won't hear it)' and 'By old fears stealing (my heart's real feeling)' illustrate the struggle to reconcile past fears with present emotions. This internal battle is further complicated by the uncertainty of whether the narrator's feelings are reciprocated, as seen in the lines 'Will I wait for you (why don't I want to) / You're all I've wanted (it leaves me haunted).' The use of parentheses to juxtapose conflicting thoughts adds depth to the portrayal of this emotional turmoil.

The song's bridge, marked by a 3 am phone call and the dimming of light, symbolizes a moment of crisis or realization. Despite the pain and confusion, there is a glimmer of hope as the narrator resolves to keep searching for the right time and person to give their heart to. The final verses, with imagery of packing bags and booking flights, suggest a readiness to move forward and embrace new possibilities, even if the journey is fraught with uncertainty. 'Layover' captures the essence of waiting and longing, blending melancholy with a resilient hope for the future.