Meaning of "Chasing the Sun" by Sara Bareilles

The lyrics of "Chasing the Sun" by Sara Bareilles delve into the concept of a cemetery in the center of Queens, New York, as a metaphor for reflecting on life and the importance of seizing every moment. The song begins by presenting the city as "a really old city split between the dead and the living." Sitting on a graveyard shelf, the singer contemplates the echoes of heartbeats from the ground, representing the past lives that have occurred. While running through the maze of names and dates, the singer realizes that life should not be wasted and continually strives to chase the sun, metaphorically pursuing the light and positivity. The cemetery becomes symbolic of the collective human history, and its weight and significance are emphasized, as the singer wonders if words and music can capture its depth and convey it to others. The lyrics suggest that the cemetery's history is a gift from the future, meant to show humanity the importance of learning from the past, opening their eyes to new experiences, and moving forward. The repetition of the phrase "you said remember that life is not meant to be wasted" serves as a reminder to the listener to live life to the fullest, filling up their lungs and running towards their goals. The song's energy and chorus encourage the listener to take action, recognizing that the only thing that can be done is to try and live fully, embracing the present moment.