Song meaning of A Question of Time (Live) [Birmingham, April 1986] by Depeche Mode

"A Question of Time" by Depeche Mode, performed live in Birmingham in April 1986, delves into the theme of protection and the passage of time in the face of external influences. The lyrics paint a picture of urgency and a sense of responsibility to shield someone from negative forces. The protagonist expresses a need to reach the person in question before others can harm them, emphasizing the importance of acting swiftly. Lines like "I've got to get to you first, It's just a question of time" highlight the race against time to safeguard the individual.

The song also touches on the vulnerability of youth and the susceptibility to manipulation. The mention of the person being only fifteen and the narrator feeling the need to protect them from those with persuasive ways reflects a concern for the innocence and impressionability of the young individual. The chorus reinforces the idea that time is ticking, and there is a looming threat of the person succumbing to external pressures: "It's just a question of time, And it's running out for you, It won't be long until you'll do, Exactly what they want you to."

Furthermore, the lyrics explore the conflicting emotions of desire and protectiveness. The narrator acknowledges the allure of the person and understands why others may be drawn to them, but ultimately condemns those who seek to take advantage. This internal struggle is evident in lines like "Sometimes I don't blame them, For wanting you, You look good, And they need something to do, Until I look at you, And then I condemn them."

In the end, the repetition of "It's just a question of time" in the outro serves as a haunting reminder of the inevitability of change and the constant battle to shield loved ones from harm. The live performance adds a raw intensity to the song, amplifying the urgency and emotional depth of the lyrics. "A Question of Time" by Depeche Mode captures the complexities of human relationships and the timeless struggle to protect those we care about in a world full of influences.