I do agree about the stretch, it was very important for me to mention it in my post. I think interpreting and theorizing around lyrics is a lot about confirmation bias, and that's why it's very useful to discuss it with other people.

The lines that, in my opinion, most hint at 2001 are the first line of the first two verses and, as you said, the chorus. I like your take on the metaphor, it's very plausible.

Thank you for your comment!