The Way We Are
Jessie Ware
Embracing Imperfection: The Essence of 'The Way We Are' by Jessie Ware
Jessie Ware's song 'The Way We Are' delves into the complexities of love and relationships, emphasizing the importance of accepting imperfections. The lyrics reflect a journey of self-discovery and mutual understanding between two people who have been through ups and downs together. The opening lines, 'This is where we are / We've been gazing at the stars,' suggest a sense of reflection and contemplation, highlighting the couple's shared experiences and dreams. However, the realization that they have been 'sleeping through the sun' indicates a missed opportunity to fully appreciate the present moment.
The chorus, 'But this is all love / And we've both been here before,' underscores the cyclical nature of their relationship. Despite the challenges and repeated conversations, the essence of their bond remains strong. Ware's plea to 'stop searching for perfect' and the reassurance that 'you don't have to try so hard' convey a powerful message about the futility of striving for an unattainable ideal. Instead, she advocates for embracing their flaws and recognizing that they are 'better off the way we are.' This acceptance of imperfection is a recurring theme throughout the song, as the couple learns to cherish what they have rather than dwelling on what they are not.
The song also touches on the idea of growth and healing, as seen in the lines, 'All the wrinkles of the past / Have now settled down at last.' This imagery suggests that the couple has moved past their previous struggles and has found a sense of peace. However, the repeated refrain of 'We keep on talking, but babe / Still staying nothing' highlights the ongoing challenge of communication and the difficulty of truly expressing their feelings. Ultimately, 'The Way We Are' is a poignant reminder that love is not about perfection but about accepting and appreciating each other for who we are, flaws and all.