Kicks In

Colin Macleod's "Kicks In" is a poignant exploration of personal growth, regret, and the yearning for transformation. The song opens with a reflection on youthful indiscretions, symbolized by "kicking shins and throwing glass," which suggests a past filled with reckless behavior and the scars it left behind. As the narrator matures, they become a "shadow," haunted by fears and insecurities that linger in the "creeping dark and twilight hours." This imagery sets the stage for a journey of self-discovery and the desire to escape the confines of one's past.

The recurring phrase "waiting till it kicks in" serves as a metaphor for the anticipation of a pivotal moment of change or realization. The narrator is caught in a liminal space, yearning for a "screaming life" and a "twisting light" that will guide them towards redemption and a new beginning. The song captures the tension between the comfort of familiarity and the allure of the unknown, as the narrator dreams of leaving their current circumstances for "something wide and new," despite the ever-present threat of "hell" being just a step away.

Macleod's lyrics also touch on themes of community and shared experiences, as seen in the nostalgic recollection of a place once loved, where "dirt under our nails from the daily grind" and "hazey lights" created a sense of belonging. However, the weight of personal struggles and the desire for change ultimately overshadow these memories. The song's introspective nature and evocative imagery invite listeners to reflect on their own journeys, the mistakes they've made, and the hope for a brighter future that lies just beyond the horizon.