In the song “10,000 Hours (cover)” by On The Outside, one of the core themes conveyed is the deep emotional investment involved in truly understanding and loving a person. The song takes listeners on a journey of exploring love defined by learning, curiosity and time.
The protagonist expresses a genuine interest to learn every small detail about the object of his love, whether it is her favorite song, her dream, or her childhood experiences. This demonstrates the theme of earnest curiosity, showcasing a desire to know someone in depth. It suggests that authentic love is not superficial, but rather stems from a profound understanding of one’s intrinsic self.
The element of ten thousand hours symbolizes dedication, patience and resilience in love. This metaphor illustrates the imperfections and challenges involved in relationships, too. It realistically portrays love as a process – one that requires investment of time and effort. Yet, the protagonist is eager to undertake this journey, even if he never completely figures everything out. This promise of unwavering commitment insinuates a sense of everlasting love, regardless of obstacles or the time it may take.
Moreover, the repeated queries about the other person’s dreams and thoughts deepen the intimacy of the song. They encode a sense of longing and desire, reflecting the human urge for emotional connection and understanding. These questions subtly stimulate the listener’s empathy, making them relate to the protagonist’s longing.
In addition, the song emphasizes the value of simple, everyday moments and details, often overlooked in love narratives. The protagonist’s curiosity about the seemingly mundane aspects of the beloved’s life suggests that in truly knowing and loving someone, every detail matters, even those that may seem trivial to others.
Overall, the song creates a narrative that brings out multiple layers of love – dedication, curiosity, resilience, longing and the desire for understanding. It builds an emotional tapestry depicting the journey of love, making it resonate powerfully with listeners. Through its lyrics, the song communicates that love is not just about grand gestures but is essentially about investing time, effort, and patience in truly understanding the soul of another.