Meaning of "Waiting for You" by Isobel Anderson

In "Waiting for You," Isobel Anderson explores the yearning for a romantic partner who will provide emotional security and stability. The narrator seeks a man who will take care of her, offering the comfort and protection she desires. These desires stem not only from a longing for companionship but also from societal expectations and traditional gender roles, as revealed in the line "All I'd been told is if you find a man, to make sure he's gentle and kind."

However, the lyrics also acknowledge that love is not a matter of choice. Despite the narrator's desire to control who she loves and the circumstances surrounding that love, she admits, "But you can't help who you love, and boy, it's always been you." This line reflects the complex nature of love and its ability to defy rationality and logic.

The repetition of the phrase "So now I'm here all alone, waiting for you" emphasizes the narrator's unwavering commitment and dedication. The passage of time, marked by days, months, and seasons, carries little significance to the narrator compared to her steadfast wait. The uncertainty of the future and her own plans are disregarded as she declares, "I'll be here till the end of all time." This resolute commitment serves as a testament to the depth of her love and her immense longing for the person she desires.

In a broader sense, "Waiting for You" explores the universal theme of longing and unrequited love. It captures the emotional state of waiting and the endurance it requires. The lyrics convey the deep longing and vulnerability that can arise when one's heart is fixated on another, highlighting the emotional toll such feelings can have.