Wake Me Up

Norah Jones' song 'Wake Me Up' is a poignant exploration of emotional vulnerability and the desire to escape from pain. The lyrics convey a deep sense of sorrow and longing, as the narrator pleads to be awakened only when the turmoil has passed. This request to be woken 'when it's over' and 'when it's done' suggests a profound need to avoid facing the immediate emotional aftermath of a significant loss, likely a romantic relationship. The imagery of someone taking 'everything' underscores the depth of this loss, indicating that the person leaving has left a void that feels all-encompassing.

The song's second verse continues this theme of avoidance and emotional retreat. The narrator asks to be woken 'when the skies are clearing' and 'when the water is still,' using natural metaphors to describe a state of calm and resolution. This desire to avoid watching 'the ships sail away' further emphasizes the pain of witnessing the departure of a loved one. The plea for reassurance, 'please say you will,' highlights the narrator's need for support and understanding during this difficult time.

In the bridge, the narrator acknowledges their current weakness, admitting that 'today I'm not so strong.' This vulnerability is contrasted with a usual resilience, suggesting that the pain is particularly acute on this day. The request to be laid down with a 'sad song' and the imagery of being 'gone too long' evoke a sense of surrender to the sadness. The final lines, 'don't shake me awake' and 'come find me somewhere between my dreams,' reflect a desire to remain in a state of emotional suspension, where the pain is dulled by sleep. The song captures the universal experience of heartache and the longing for a temporary escape from its intensity.