Future Starts Slow

The Kills' song 'Future Starts Slow' is a powerful exploration of resilience, unyielding love, and the struggle to maintain one's sanity amidst chaos. The lyrics convey a sense of determination and steadfastness, even when faced with overwhelming challenges. The repeated lines 'You can holler, you can wail / You can swing, you can flail' suggest a barrage of external pressures and emotional turmoil, yet the narrator remains resolute, declaring 'But I'll never give you up.' This unwavering commitment is further emphasized by the line 'If I ever give you up my heart will surely fail,' indicating that the bond they share is vital to their very existence.

The song also delves into themes of identity and belonging. The mention of 'God can keep my soul / England have my bones' reflects a deep connection to one's roots and heritage, yet the plea 'But don't ever give me up' underscores the importance of personal relationships over abstract concepts of nationality or spirituality. The line 'I could never get back up when the future starts so slow' captures a sense of despair and the difficulty of moving forward when progress feels painstakingly slow.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring motif of mental strain and the fragility of the mind. Phrases like 'You can blow what's left of my right mind' and 'It's hard to be hard I guess / When you're shaking like a dog' paint a vivid picture of someone on the brink of losing their sanity. Despite this, the narrator's resolve remains unbroken, highlighting the strength of their love and commitment. The song's raw energy and emotional intensity are characteristic of The Kills' musical style, blending gritty rock with poignant lyricism to create a compelling narrative of endurance and devotion.