Meaning of "I Wonder (Departure)" by ABBA

The lyrics of "I Wonder (Departure)" by ABBA delve into the internal struggle of the narrator as they contemplate leaving their familiar life behind and embarking on a new path. The park, houses, old streets, and everything dear to them represent the comfort and security of their current surroundings. They question whether all these familiar things will still be there if they choose to leave and then return. This uncertainty about the future is amplified by their realization that their friends will be getting married, having children, and building homes - all the expected milestones that come with growing up. Although this sounds nice and well-planned, the narrator wonders if it is worth leaving their current life behind and potentially missing out on these experiences.

The narrator's fear and anxiety are palpable throughout the lyrics. They describe the act of leaving as frightening and scary, questioning whether it is the right thing to do. Their identity is also called into question as they wonder who they are if they don't even try. This suggests that taking risks and embracing opportunities is essential to understanding oneself and living a fulfilling life. The narrator asserts that they are not a coward and will be strong in the face of uncertainty and fear. They acknowledge that this chance may only come once in a lifetime and decide to seize it, confident that it cannot go wrong.

Overall, the lyrics of "I Wonder (Departure)" convey the universal struggle of leaving behind the familiar and venturing into the unknown. They capture the ambivalence between the desire for security and the fear of missing out on what life has to offer. Ultimately, the song encourages listeners to be brave, take risks, and embrace the once-in-a-lifetime chances that come their way.