I've Been Waiting For You
ABBA
The Joy of Rekindled Love: ABBA's 'I've Been Waiting For You'
ABBA's 'I've Been Waiting For You' is a song that captures the essence of rediscovering love and the joy that comes with it. The lyrics convey a sense of surprise and elation at the return of feelings thought to be lost. The protagonist speaks of having been in love before and not expecting to reach the emotional highs of love again. However, the arrival of a new person has reawakened those dormant emotions, bringing back 'that old feeling.'
The song's chorus emphasizes the intensity of the protagonist's emotions, using a series of verbs ('thrill', 'delight', 'please', 'excite') to describe the impact of their love interest. The repetition of these words underscores the overwhelming nature of their feelings. The protagonist expresses a deep commitment and adoration, willing to lay their life before the other person, signifying a profound level of devotion and vulnerability. The repeated line 'I've been waiting for you' suggests a sense of destiny or fate, as if this new love is the culmination of a long-held hope or desire.
Musically, ABBA is known for their catchy pop melodies and rich harmonies, which often enhance the emotional weight of their lyrics. In 'I've Been Waiting For You,' the melody is uplifting, complementing the optimistic and heartfelt lyrics. The song speaks to the universal experience of finding love when least expected, and the transformative power it can have on one's life. It's a celebration of love's ability to renew and invigorate the human spirit.