Navigating life's complexities and the passage of time are central themes in this introspective piece. The lyrics convey a sense of grappling with change, personal growth, and the inevitability of aging. The lines "You ask me not to pull alarms / We have to act our ages" suggest a struggle between wanting to resist the constraints of adulthood while recognizing its inevitability. The song also touches on societal pressures and expectations, as seen in "Comin' in very late / Just above our pay grades." The refrain "The dawn is rising / the land ain't rising" could symbolize hope amidst stagnancy or adversity. Ultimately, Bon Iver encourages acceptance of life's ebb and flow, urging listeners to find their own path rather than adhering strictly to societal norms or expectations.
