Waiting For That Day
George Michael
The Lingering Ache of Lost Love: Analyzing George Michael's 'Waiting For That Day'
George Michael's song 'Waiting For That Day' delves deep into the emotional turmoil of a love lost but not forgotten. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person haunted by memories of a past relationship, unable to move on despite the passage of time. The opening lines reveal the protagonist's struggle to find solace in others, only to be constantly reminded of their former lover. This recurring theme of memory serves as both a comfort and a curse, highlighting the difficulty of letting go.
The song's narrative is introspective, with the protagonist reflecting on their own foolishness for not moving on. The mountain metaphor suggests a sense of isolation and introspection, as the protagonist grapples with their emotions. The lyrics also touch on the passage of time, with references to a new decade and the inevitability of change. Despite this, the protagonist remains stuck in the past, unable to escape the pain of their lost love. This is further emphasized by the line 'something in me needs this pain,' suggesting a deep-seated need to hold onto the hurt as a way of keeping the memory of the relationship alive.
The chorus reveals a desperate plea for reconciliation, with the protagonist longing for their lover to return. The repetition of 'come back' underscores the intensity of this desire, while the lines 'I miss your kiss, I miss your smile' convey a deep sense of longing and nostalgia. The song concludes with a poignant acknowledgment that 'you can't always get what you want,' a nod to the harsh reality that sometimes, no matter how much we yearn for something, it remains out of reach. George Michael's soulful delivery and heartfelt lyrics make 'Waiting For That Day' a powerful exploration of love, loss, and the enduring impact of memories.