Expectation

Tame Impala's song 'Expectation' delves into the emotional complexities and psychological burdens that come with expectations and the uncertainty of relationships. The lyrics reflect a deep sense of doubt and introspection, as the narrator questions the authenticity of past experiences and the reality of their emotions. The opening lines, 'Everything you ever told me could have been a lie / We may never have been in love,' set the tone for a narrative filled with skepticism and the painful realization that what was once believed to be true might have been an illusion.

The recurring theme of 'fluctuations' and 'expectation' highlights the internal struggle and the toll it takes on the narrator's soul. The repetition of these words emphasizes the cyclical nature of doubt and the constant battle between hope and disappointment. The line 'Expectation is taking its toll' serves as a poignant reminder of how the pressure to meet certain standards or fulfill certain roles can lead to emotional exhaustion and a sense of disillusionment.

In the latter part of the song, the narrator expresses a desire to escape from the burden of expectations and the fear of disappointing others. The lyrics 'I'll never, ever have to see another disappointed face / No one to please' reveal a longing for freedom and self-acceptance. However, the song also acknowledges the difficulty of completely detaching from these expectations, as evidenced by the narrator's actions of combing their hair in anticipation of someone's visit. This duality captures the human experience of wanting to break free from societal pressures while still being influenced by them.

'Expectation' by Tame Impala is a powerful exploration of the emotional weight of expectations and the impact they have on one's sense of self and relationships. The song's introspective lyrics and haunting melody create a poignant reflection on the complexities of human emotions and the struggle to find authenticity in a world filled with uncertainty.