When

Dodie Clark's song 'When' delves into the complex emotions of longing, disillusionment, and the search for genuine love and happiness. The lyrics reveal a deep sense of introspection and vulnerability, as the narrator grapples with the realization that they have never truly been in love. This admission sets the tone for the rest of the song, where the narrator reflects on the superficiality of past relationships and the allure of idealized love that never quite materializes.

The song's chorus, 'Am I the only one wishing life away? Never caught up in the moment, busy begging the past to stay,' captures the essence of the narrator's struggle. They are caught in a cycle of nostalgia and dissatisfaction, unable to fully embrace the present. The metaphor of 'memories painted with much brighter ink' suggests that the past is often romanticized, making it difficult to appreciate the present moment. This theme is further emphasized by the line, 'I'm surrounded by greener looking time,' indicating a perpetual sense of yearning for something better.

Dodie Clark's poignant lyrics also touch on the pressure to conform to societal expectations of love and happiness. The narrator's frustration with 'faking diary entries' and the realization that they will 'never be sixteen again' highlight the internal conflict between societal ideals and personal experiences. The repeated refrain, 'I'm waiting to live, and waiting to love,' underscores the narrator's ongoing quest for fulfillment, suggesting that this search may never truly end. Through 'When,' Dodie Clark offers a raw and honest exploration of the human condition, resonating with anyone who has ever felt lost or unfulfilled in their pursuit of love and happiness.