Meaning of "Waste" by Oh Wonder

The song "Waste" delves into the theme of loneliness and the internal struggle to cope with it. The opening line, "There's a space in between, like a grey evergreen," creates a vivid image of a barren emotional state, where a sense of emptiness persists. The repetition of the line throughout the song emphasizes the persistent nature of this loneliness, likened to an evergreen tree that remains lifeless and gray.

The lyrics also touch upon the narrator's attempt to suppress their pain and avoid returning to this lonely space. The line, "I said I would never come back, screaming at the walls in jet black," suggests a previous experience of intense emotional turmoil. The use of "jet black" emphasizes the darkness and intensity of their emotions. However, despite this declaration, the narrator acknowledges the difficulty of suppressing their emotions entirely and longs to release them.

The repetition of the phrase "What a waste, what a waste, what a waste to be so alone" represents the frustration and despair of feeling isolated. It highlights the concept of wasted potential due to this loneliness, as the individual may have much to offer but feels unable to fully express themselves or connect with others. The repetition becomes almost pleading toward the end, suggesting a desperate plea for an end to this isolation.

Overall, "Waste" explores the profound impact of loneliness on an individual's mental and emotional well-being. It portrays a struggle to reconcile with the pain and emptiness, while also acknowledging the difficulty of escaping this state. The lyrics reveal the internal battle between wanting to remain in control and the need to express one's emotions, ultimately reflecting on the toll that loneliness can take on a person's life.