Telephone

Waterparks' song 'Telephone' delves into the whirlwind emotions that accompany the early stages of a romantic relationship. The lyrics capture the excitement and anxiety of newfound love, where the protagonist is eager to learn everything about their new partner, from their middle name to their future dreams. This eagerness is juxtaposed with a sense of distance, as the protagonist admits to being 'interested but distant to a fault,' highlighting the internal conflict between wanting to connect deeply and fearing emotional vulnerability.

The chorus reveals the protagonist's intense feelings, despite the relationship being in its infancy. Lines like 'I know we only just met, so why do I feel invested?' and 'Do you feel it too?' express a longing for mutual affection and validation. The protagonist is caught in a paradox, feeling deeply connected yet uncertain if these feelings are reciprocated. This emotional turmoil is further emphasized by the repeated question, 'Do you feel it too?' which underscores the desire for reassurance and shared sentiment.

The metaphor of talking to a telephone when alone symbolizes the protagonist's struggle with expressing their feelings directly. Instead of confronting their emotions head-on, they confide in an inanimate object, reflecting a fear of rejection or complicating the relationship. The song's closing lines, 'He's losing his mind, and I'm reaping all the benefits,' suggest a sense of triumph and satisfaction in the emotional chaos, perhaps indicating that the protagonist finds a thrill in the uncertainty and intensity of new love. Overall, 'Telephone' captures the exhilarating yet nerve-wracking experience of falling for someone new, blending vulnerability with a touch of playful self-awareness.