Wait For Life (feat. Lana Del Rey)

“Wait For Life” by Emile Haynie, featuring Lana Del Rey, delves into the emotional turmoil and existential frustration of waiting for life to take a positive turn. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels trapped in a cycle of unfulfilled expectations and emotional labor. The protagonist is working hard, possibly in a performative sense, to achieve something meaningful, yet feels that their efforts are in vain. The repeated question, “Why you make me work so hard,” suggests a sense of futility and exhaustion, as if the person is putting on a show for someone who doesn't appreciate or understand their struggles.

The metaphor of being “like a baby who don't got nowhere to go” highlights a sense of helplessness and dependency. This imagery is powerful, as it conveys the idea of being stuck in a state of immaturity or lack of direction. The protagonist feels observed and judged, yet their cries for help go unheard, encapsulated in the lines, “I can't hear you call / And I can't hear me shout.” This sense of isolation is further emphasized by the repeated refrain, “I'm lonely,” which underscores the emotional desolation and the longing for connection and understanding.

The song also touches on themes of substance abuse and escapism, as seen in the lines, “Why you make me take that shit / To put on that evening show.” This suggests that the protagonist is being pushed towards unhealthy coping mechanisms to deal with their pain and performative pressures. The mention of “booze and blow” indicates a struggle with addiction or the influence of someone who is leading them down a destructive path. The repeated feeling of “falling apart” signifies a deep sense of disintegration and the desperate need for someone to acknowledge their suffering and provide support.