Call It What You Want

“Call It What You Want” from High School Musical: The Musical: The Series delves into the complexities and uncertainties of young love. The song captures the emotional turbulence of a relationship that teeters between friendship and something more profound. The imagery of walking home in the dark and rain, wrapped in a sweater, evokes a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The heart-shaped grenade metaphor poignantly illustrates the potential for both love and heartbreak, encapsulating the precariousness of their bond.

The lyrics reflect the protagonist's internal struggle with their feelings. They acknowledge their reputation for ruining things, hinting at past mistakes or insecurities that make them hesitant to define the relationship. Despite this, there is a palpable hope that things will change for the better, emphasizing a desire for mutual understanding and connection. The repeated refrain, “Call it love or just a rush, call it real and call it us,” underscores the ambiguity and the reluctance to label their emotions definitively. This uncertainty is a hallmark of young love, where feelings are intense but often confusing.

The song also touches on the theme of self-discovery. The line “Wakin' up in a world I created, but it's only in my head” suggests a journey of understanding one's emotions and desires. The courage to spill secrets on the rain-stained pavement symbolizes the bravery required to be vulnerable and honest in a relationship. The repeated assertion, “Right now, all I know is I want you,” highlights the immediacy and intensity of their feelings, even if they can't fully articulate or understand them. This raw, unfiltered emotion is a central theme, capturing the essence of youthful romance and the hope that the other person feels the same way.