An Awful Thing To Waste

Supertramp's song "An Awful Thing To Waste" is a poignant reminder of the importance of seizing life's opportunities and not letting one's mind go to waste. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and encouragement, urging the listener to break free from their current state of stagnation and embrace life's challenges head-on. The song opens with the suggestion that the listener needs a break and a change of scenery to clear their mind and think things through. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the themes of self-reflection and personal growth.

The lyrics emphasize the necessity of actively engaging with life rather than passively letting it pass by. The line "You gotta meet life and shake it by the hand" serves as a powerful metaphor for taking control and making the most of one's experiences. The song also touches on the idea of using one's emotions and memories constructively, rather than allowing them to become a source of complacency. The repeated question, "What you gonna do about it?" challenges the listener to take action and make meaningful changes in their life.

Furthermore, the song highlights the importance of appreciating what one has, such as a supportive family and a well-planned life, while also recognizing that these things alone are not enough to ensure fulfillment. The lyrics caution against wasting one's potential and encourage the listener to open their mind and embrace new possibilities. The closing lines, "Living life this way is a bust / If you have to suffer you must / Don't you know we want to applaud you," serve as a final rallying cry to persevere through difficulties and strive for success, knowing that others are rooting for you.