Meaning of "Wait" by The Dear Hunter

The lyrics of "Wait" by The Dear Hunter explore themes of faith, doubt, and the fear of the unknown. The narrator reveals that they lost their faith when they were young, which suggests that their belief in organized religion or a higher power has been shaken. They describe the physical act of clenching their fist and biting their tongue, which signifies their struggle to suppress their doubts and adhere to the beliefs they were taught. However, the narrator questions the validity of these beliefs and wonders if the existence of the soul and heaven are merely metaphors. By asking if our bodies are just piles of dirt and if the soul is a metaphor, they challenge the traditional religious understanding of the relationship between the physical and spiritual realms.

The narrator also expresses their fear of what awaits them after death. They mention wanting to leave awake from the things they have done, suggesting a sense of guilt or regret. This fear is intensified by the uncertainty surrounding the nature of existence beyond death. They fear not knowing whether heaven and hell exist or if eternity holds something even worse. It appears that the narrator seeks answers to these existential questions but is torn between wanting to give up on the notions of heaven and needing the comfort and reassurance it provides. This internal conflict speaks to the human desire for purpose, meaning, and a sense of transcendence.

In the last lines, the narrator's fear of heaven is reiterated. They hope that there is no heaven above, perhaps because of the potential for eternal judgment or the limitations it may impose on their existence. This hope may stem from a desire for autonomy and the freedom to live without the constraints of a higher power.

Overall, "Wait" delves into the internal struggle of faith and the fear of what lies beyond death. The lyrics prompt listeners to reflect on their own beliefs, the limits of human knowledge, and the existential questions that arise in the search for meaning and purpose.