Stray

Grace VanderWaal's song 'Stray' delves into the emotional turmoil and longing that accompany loss and heartache. The lyrics express a deep desire to articulate the pain and confusion that the artist feels, but also the struggle to find the right words. This is evident in the repeated lines about wanting to write a song that can explain her loss, indicating a need for catharsis and understanding through music.

The imagery in the song is vivid and poignant, with references to rain, burning cheeks, and churning insides. These metaphors paint a picture of someone who is deeply affected by their emotions, feeling overwhelmed and unable to escape the mental and emotional storm. The rain symbolizes a persistent sadness, while the burning cheeks and churning insides suggest intense, almost physical reactions to the emotional pain. The recurring theme of wanting to get lost and run away highlights a desire to escape from these overwhelming feelings.

Additionally, the song touches on the theme of nostalgia and a longing for the past. VanderWaal sings about wanting to feel and move the way she used to, indicating a yearning for a time when things were simpler and happier. This sense of nostalgia is a common response to loss, as people often look back on better times when faced with current hardships. The repetition of the phrase 'I keep only seeing rain' underscores the persistent nature of her sadness and the difficulty of moving past it.

Overall, 'Stray' is a powerful exploration of emotional pain, the struggle to articulate it, and the longing for a return to happier times. VanderWaal's raw and honest lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced similar feelings of loss and heartache.