Wishful Thinking

Gracie Abrams' song 'Wishful Thinking' delves into the emotional turmoil of dealing with unfulfilled expectations in a relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is grappling with the disappointment of a partner who has not matured as hoped. The opening lines set the stage for a relationship that has seen better days, with the protagonist meeting their partner 'down at the bottom' and finishing a bottle, indicating a sense of despair and resignation. The mention of knowing all the partner's problems suggests a deep, albeit troubled, connection.

The song's chorus highlights the protagonist's frustration and sense of helplessness. Despite their efforts to 'fix this,' nothing has changed, and they are left wondering if their hope for the partner to grow up is merely 'wishful thinking.' This sentiment is echoed throughout the song, emphasizing the cyclical nature of their problems and the protagonist's growing realization that their expectations may never be met. The use of phrases like 'problems, past tense' and 'dropped it all in a second' underscores the fleeting nature of any progress made in the relationship.

Abrams also touches on themes of substance abuse and escapism, with references to 'medicine and molly' and 'blacking out.' These lines suggest that the partner's coping mechanisms are destructive, further complicating the relationship. The repeated refrain of 'you'd grow up' serves as a poignant reminder of the protagonist's unmet desires and the emotional toll it takes on them. Through 'Wishful Thinking,' Gracie Abrams captures the heartache of loving someone who may never change, and the painful process of coming to terms with that reality.