Meaning of "Wake Me Up" by Norah Jones

The song "Wake Me Up" by Norah Jones explores the theme of seeking refuge and respite from the challenges and hardships of life. The desire to be woken up when it's over reflects a yearning for a better future, where the burden of the present is lifted. The repetitiveness of the phrase "Wake me up" suggests a longing to be relieved from the emotional weight of a difficult situation or relationship.

The lyrics continue by expressing a desire for peace and clarity. The protagonist wants to be awakened when the skies clear and the water is still, symbolizing a calming and serene environment. This signifies a longing for a sense of tranquility and stability amidst the chaos of life. The request for someone to say they will wake them up demonstrates a need for reassurance and support, highlighting the vulnerability of the protagonist during this trying time.

The line "If it were any other day, this wouldn't get the best of me" suggests that the protagonist is usually strong and resilient, capable of dealing with challenges. However, on this particular day, their strength is wavering, leading them to seek solace in a sad song and the relief of sleep. The protagonist acknowledges that this weakness is temporary, indicating that they will eventually confront and process their emotions, but for now, they would prefer to escape through sleep.

The final lines of the song express a lingering anticipation of feeling the pain later, implying that the protagonist is aware that this temporary respite will not solve their problems entirely. However, they still find solace in the temporary escape from reality and choose to embrace it for the time being.