Meaning of "Do I Wait" by Ryan Adams

The lyrics of "Do I Wait" delve into the themes of unrequited love, longing, and uncertainty. The speaker is torn between their desire to wait for someone they care about and the realization that perhaps it is time to move on. The repetitive questioning of whether to wait or not highlights the internal struggle and the conflicting emotions the speaker is experiencing. The mention of clowns and the emptiness of the room adds a sense of surrealism to the lyrics, suggesting that the situation is not as straightforward as it seems. The imagery of shadows in the light and waiting in the wings evoke a sense of anticipation and longing for something that may never come to fruition. Overall, the song captures the bittersweet feeling of holding on to hope while acknowledging the harsh reality of unreciprocated feelings.