Meaning of 2011 by 5 Seconds of Summer

The song "2011" by 5 Seconds of Summer explores the nostalgic longing for the simpler days of the past and the regret that comes with growing up. The overall theme of the song revolves around the desire to return to a time when life was less complicated and the innocence of youth prevailed.One standout lyric that helps develop this theme is "I miss the days when we were young and not too wise, only doin' what felt right." This lyric reflects on the carefree nature of youth, where decisions were made based on intuition and genuine desires rather than overthinking. It taps into the nostalgia for a time when life was more spontaneous and less burdened by the uncertainties of adulthood. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the longing for a simpler, unburdened existence.Another important lyric is "Maybe it's just too late for the old me, maybe there's no point in holdin' on to something closely, I should let it go, I should let it fade." This lyric delves into the theme of personal growth and the realization that clinging to the past can hinder progress. It suggests that holding on to who we used to be can prevent us from evolving and embracing new opportunities. The nostalgic desire to go back in time is contradicted by the recognition that letting go and accepting change is essential for personal development.The chorus lyrics "Why do we complicate it? Why do we get so jaded? Can we just go back, go back to 2011?" express the universal feeling of longing for a simpler time and questioning why life becomes more complex as we grow older. This sentiment relates to the theme of disillusionment and the tendency to complicate things unnecessarily. The wish to return to 2011 symbolizes a desire for a reset, a chance to revisit a time when life felt more hopeful and less burdened by the weight of adulthood."I