Think You Can Wait

The National's song 'Think You Can Wait' delves into themes of emotional turmoil, existential struggle, and the longing for patience and understanding. The opening lines, 'I was drifting, crying / I was looking for an island,' set a tone of isolation and desperation. The imagery of drifting and searching for an island suggests a quest for solace or a safe haven amidst chaos. The mention of pulling 'the devil down with me one way or another' hints at a battle with inner demons, a recurring theme in The National's introspective lyrics.

The chorus, 'I'm out of my mind; think you can wait? / I'm way off the line; think you can wait?' reflects a plea for patience and understanding from a loved one. The repetition emphasizes the speaker's awareness of their own instability and the hope that their partner can endure this period of difficulty. The lines 'We've been running a sleepless run / Been away from the baby way too long' introduce a sense of shared struggle and the impact of prolonged absence on relationships, possibly hinting at the sacrifices made for career or personal battles.

The verse 'What I'm thinking is simple / I'll sell apples and ice water at the temple' introduces a metaphor for seeking redemption or a simpler life. The act of selling humble goods at a sacred place suggests a desire to find peace and purpose in modesty. The repeated assertion 'I'll try, but I couldn't be better' underscores the speaker's effort to improve despite feeling inadequate. The song's refrain, 'all I have is all,' serves as a poignant reminder of the speaker's vulnerability and the hope that their efforts, however small, will be enough.