Meaning of "Sitting Waiting Wishing" by Jack Johnson

The lyrics of "Sitting Waiting Wishing" by Jack Johnson delve into the themes of unrequited love, frustration, and self-reflection. The narrator finds themselves in a situation where they are constantly waiting for someone who doesn't reciprocate their feelings. They express their belief that if the other person believed in superstitions or paid attention to the signs, they would realize the narrator's love. However, the song acknowledges that the world can be cruel and love doesn't always work the way we want it to.

The narrator acknowledges their own foolishness in continuing to love someone who doesn't love them back. They sing about singing the other person's songs, dancing their dance, and giving their friends a chance, all in the hopes of winning their affection. However, they come to the realization that enduring all of that wasn't worth it if it meant never having the person they loved. They understand that the other person may have been through similar experiences before, but this is the narrator's first time going through this situation.

Despite their frustration, the narrator admits to their own weakness. They confess that they can't help but keep playing their part and waiting for the other person, even though it's not benefiting them. They want the plot of their relationship to twist, to have some excitement or change, as they've had enough of the mystery and uncertainty. The other person continually builds up their hopes and expectations, only to shoot them down, leaving the narrator feeling broken and defeated.

In the latter part of the song, the narrator imagines being in the other person's position. They say that, if they were the other person, they would finally understand the pain and frustration they've caused. They would wonder why it took them so long to see the truth and would no longer be cruel. The song concludes with the acknowledgement that waiting for love is not an easy task.

Overall, the lyrics of "Sitting Waiting Wishing" explore the emotions felt in an unbalanced and unrequited love. It reflects the narrator's frustration, self-awareness, and their struggle to let go of a relationship that isn't working.