The lyrics of "Wishful Thinking" by Amanda Marshall describe the narrator waiting for someone who they believe will return to them, despite the pain and loneliness they feel in their absence. The narrator finds solace in wishful thinking, hoping that the person will come back and stay with them, keeping them from sinking into despair.

Meaning of "Wishful Thinking" by Amanda Marshall

The lyrics of "Wishful Thinking" explore the theme of unrequited love and the enduring hope that lingers despite disappointment. The narrator is in a state of emotional limbo, holding onto the belief that the person they love will return, even when faced with evidence to the contrary. This speaks to the power of love and the human tendency to cling to hope in the face of heartache. The repeated references to feeling safe and secure when the person is present juxtaposed with the loneliness and fading dreams in their absence highlight the emotional rollercoaster of longing for someone who may not reciprocate those feelings. The concept of wishful thinking serves as a coping mechanism for the pain of unfulfilled love, providing a glimmer of optimism in the face of uncertainty.