False Start

Emily Kinney's "False Start" is a poignant exploration of the emotional turbulence that accompanies unfulfilled expectations and the struggle to find motivation amidst repeated setbacks. The song uses the metaphor of a swimming competition to illustrate the feeling of being ready to dive into something new, only to find oneself back at the starting line, soaked and sorry. This imagery of a false start in a race captures the frustration and disappointment of investing energy and hope into something that doesn't pan out as expected.

The lyrics delve into the internal conflict of wanting to give up entirely, as the protagonist wrestles with the reality of their situation. The mention of "wrestlin' with reality" and "bored in bed" suggests a sense of stagnation and disillusionment, where dreams and reality blur into one another. This struggle is further emphasized by the line "How can I tell what's real or fake?" which reflects the confusion and doubt that often accompany repeated failures or false starts.

Kinney's song also touches on the theme of perseverance despite setbacks. The recurring imagery of jumping in ahead of the rest, despite past failures, highlights a resilient spirit. The protagonist's desire to "just trying to love my best" underscores a universal longing to succeed and be recognized, even when faced with the possibility of another false start. Through its introspective lyrics and relatable metaphors, "False Start" resonates with anyone who has faced the challenge of picking themselves up and trying again after a setback.