If Only I Could Wait (feat. Danielle Haim)

Bon Iver Bon Iver

The Weight of Waiting: A Journey Through Time and Emotion

Bon Iver's "If Only I Could Wait (feat. Danielle Haim)" is a poignant exploration of time, patience, and the emotional weight of waiting. The song's lyrics delve into the internal struggle of wanting to pause and reflect, yet feeling the pressure of time moving forward. The repeated phrase "If only I could wait" suggests a longing for stillness and the ability to process emotions without the relentless march of time.

The song paints a vivid picture of a state of mind where summers feel like "charades," hinting at the superficiality and fleeting nature of certain experiences. This metaphor suggests a deeper dissatisfaction with the present, where the protagonist questions their ability to bear the emotional burden they carry. The mention of "the blaze of a northern bar" evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing for simpler times, where the protagonist could find solace and clarity.

Throughout the song, there is a tension between the desire to wait and the inevitability of change. The lyrics reflect on the passage of time and the impact it has on relationships and personal growth. The line "I have rendered other fates" suggests a recognition of past choices and their consequences, while "prowling on the brakes" indicates a struggle to slow down and find peace amidst the chaos. Bon Iver's collaboration with Danielle Haim adds a layer of emotional depth, as their voices intertwine to convey the complexity of these feelings.

Share on social media Share as link
  1. Wash
  2. Roslyn (feat. St. Vincent)
  3. Beach Baby
  4. Holocene
  5. Flume
  6. Michicant
  7. iMi
  8. Blindsided
  9. Salem
  10. Creature Fear
View all Bon Iver songs

Most popular topics in Bon Iver songs

Related artists

  1. The Paper Kites
    The Paper Kites
  2. The XX
    The XX
  3. Daughter
    Daughter
  4. Father John Misty
    Father John Misty
  5. The Lumineers
    The Lumineers
  6. Vancouver Sleep Clinic
    Vancouver Sleep Clinic
  7. Beirut
    Beirut
  8. Iron & Wine
    Iron & Wine