Meaning of "Wasted Time" by Vance Joy

The lyrics of "Wasted Time" delve into the speaker's emotional vulnerability and their perception of themselves in a relationship. The speaker wonders why the other person would choose to "waste their time" on them, highlighting their own insecurities and self-doubt. Despite recognizing the other person's beauty and youth, the speaker fears losing them and believes their own shortcomings will ultimately lead to the relationship's demise. The line "It's the easiest way to know you're alive" suggests that being with the other person brings the speaker a sense of validation and vitality. However, the speaker also acknowledges that the other person has had an impact on their plans and priorities, demonstrating the profound influence they have on their life. The repetition of the lines "The things that I thought would last, they're fading, they're fading" and "The feelings I used to have, they're changing, they're changing" symbolizes the fleeting nature of relationships and emotions. This reflects the speaker's realization that things are not as permanent or unchanging as they once believed. Overall, "Wasted Time" explores themes of self-doubt, the fear of loss, and the evolving nature of relationships.