Meaning of "When?" by Holly Throsby

The lyrics of "When?" by Holly Throsby capture the universal experience of wanting to move on from a past relationship and the lingering emotions that make it difficult to do so. The speaker yearns for a time when memories of the person no longer evoke any feelings, hoping for a sense of closure and emotional relief. The use of symbolic imagery, such as stars running out of gas and horses laying to rest, emphasizes the speaker's desire for a definitive ending to their emotional pain. The repetition of the phrase "And I can stop pretending" reflects the idea of putting on a facade and pretending to be okay when deep down, the speaker is still hurting. Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of longing, regret, and a yearning for emotional healing and closure.