[10][16][17][14] The song represents "past", lyrically tells about "a kidnapped protagonist being trapped in a chamber" with a chiptune influence on the production.

[15][16] Lyricisms of the track has been described as "ambling and diaristic" about reflections on lockdown of the previous year through a fable style, and has been likened as a sequel to "Visiting Hours".

[19] Shaad D'Souza from Pitchfork described the EP as "focusing on the emotional toll of disaster with ingenuity, wit, and a warm, bright sound" in contrast to Civilisation I's "nightmarish visions of perpetual war and wildfire smoke".

[16] Jeff Cubbison of Impose called the track "The Princess and the Clock" an "explosive experimental synth pop anthem", describing it as a "shimmering and poignant dark-fairytale.

"[20] Joe Vitagliano of American Songwriter named the EP one of the "best" releases from the first half of 2021, writing that "the eclectic mix of vintage synths, evocative lyrics and dreamy arrangements comes together to form something truly sublime.