Song meaning of The Eighteenth Hole by Tim Baker

The lyrics of "The Eighteenth Hole" by Tim Baker convey a sense of longing, regret, and a yearning for escape from the complexities of relationships and social expectations. The song begins by describing a woman, who, despite being in a relationship with someone else, is seen by the narrator as someone he should have never left. This sets the tone for the regret and unsettled emotions present throughout the song.

The lyrics express a desire to escape from the current situation and find solace in the "southside hills," where the narrator can be calm and still, something he never feels in his current surroundings. The line "They want you to chill out, man/Something you never can" suggests that the narrator feels pressured to conform to the expectations of his friends or social circle, but he is unable to do so.

The mention of the eighteenth hole, a term used in golf, represents an opportunity for escape. The narrator suggests that ignoring responsibilities, represented by not even going back for a coat, and fading away into this metaphorical hole may be the only hope for finding peace.

The mention of Sunday morning and the narrator's uncle golfing implies a sense of routine and the disdainful attitude of others towards the narrator's struggles. Despite this, there is a glimmer of hope as the uncle might offer some comfort and understanding.

Overall, the lyrics convey a complex mix of regret, longing, and a desire to find peace and escape from life's complications. It is a reflection on missed opportunities and the difficulty of finding genuine connection and understanding in relationships.