The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Ships with Holes Will Sink" by the artist "We Were Promised Jetpacks"

The song "Ships with Holes Will Sink" by the Scottish indie rock band We Were Promised Jetpacks is a metaphorical depiction of heartache and the struggle with guilt and loss. The lyrical hero is in a state of deep despair, comparing himself to a ship riddled with bullet holes and wounds, symbolizing the emotional trauma he has endured.

The phrase "I think I died this time" speaks to a sense of hopelessness and emptiness. The lyrical hero feels broken and lost, as if he has died inside.

He tries to make sense of the reasons for his condition, comparing it to a crime investigation. He has "clues and guesses," but they only intensify his confusion and do not bring him closer to the answer.

The repeating chorus "Time, give us some time, give us some time" is a plea for a second chance, an opportunity to fix everything. However, the hero realizes the futility of his desires, for he "can't even sing the words."

Feelings of guilt and shame are an important part of the hero's experience. He admits that he has "things to be ashamed of," but these feelings seem insignificant to him in the face of all-consuming despair.

The image of a lost map and missing legs symbolizes a loss of direction in life and an inability to move on. The sea in this context can be identified with the depth of emotional experiences.

The final refrain "Ships with holes will sink and I will swim" can be interpreted in two ways. On the one hand, it is a statement of the inevitable: a damaged ship is doomed. On the other hand, in the words "and I will swim" there is hope for salvation, that the protagonist will manage to overcome despair and find the strength to move on.