Waste My Time

Grace VanderWaal's song 'Waste My Time' captures the essence of youthful love and the bittersweet nature of fleeting moments. The lyrics paint a picture of two people who are deeply connected yet aware that their time together is temporary. The opening lines, 'Runnin' with you it's like we're in a memory / That we'll try to forget when you grow up and leave,' set the tone for a relationship that is both cherished and doomed to end. This duality is a recurring theme throughout the song, highlighting the tension between wanting to hold on and knowing that letting go is inevitable.

The chorus, 'I just wanna waste my time / And I just wanna waste your time,' is a poignant declaration of the desire to savor every moment, even if it seems pointless or hopeless. VanderWaal's use of the word 'waste' is particularly interesting; it suggests a carefree, almost rebellious attitude towards time and societal expectations. Instead of viewing their time together as a waste, the characters in the song see it as a precious opportunity to connect and create memories, no matter how fleeting.

Cultural references, such as 'Tell me, won't you miss Manhattan?' add another layer of depth to the song. Manhattan, often seen as a symbol of dreams and aspirations, contrasts with the song's theme of impermanence. The mention of an accent also hints at a sense of otherness or distance, further emphasizing the temporary nature of their relationship. Despite the underlying sadness, the song is ultimately a celebration of living in the moment and finding joy in the present, even if it means facing an uncertain future.