Waste by Foster the People Lyrics Meaning – Unpacking the Anthem of Resilience and Support
Lyrics
Yeah when the monsters they won’t go
The windows, they wont close
I’ll pretend to see what you see
How long, I say how long, will you re-live the things that are gone?
Oh yeah the devil’s on your back but I know you can shake him off
And every day that you want to waste, that you want to waste, you can
And every day that you want to wake up, that you want to wake, you can
And every day that you want to change, that you want to change, yeah
I’ll help you see it through ’cause I just really want to be with you
You know its funny how freedom can make us feel contained
Yeah when the muscles in our legs aren’t used to all the walking
I know if you could snap both your fingers than you’d escape with me
But in the meantime I’ll just wait here and listen to you when you speak, or scream
And every day that you want to waste, that you want to waste, you can
And every day that you want to wake up, that you want to wake, you can
And every day that you want to change, that you want to change, yeah
I’ll help you see it through ’cause I just really want to be with you
And every day that you want to waste, that you want to waste, you can
And every day that you want to wake up, that you want to wake, you can
And every day that you want to change, that you want to change, yeah
I’ll help you see it through ’cause I just really want to be with you
Foster the People’s ‘Waste’ is a track that doesn’t just flirt with the depths of introspection; it dives headfirst into them. This song navigates through the dark alleys of personal struggles, offering a beacon of hope with its poignant lyrics and comforting melodies.
At its core, ‘Waste’ is more than just a melody to hum along to. It serves as a hymn of unwavering support and tends to strike a deeper chord for those grappling with their inner demons and the feeling of stagnation that entraps many. Let’s delve into the nuances of the song that infuses its listeners with a sense of resilience and companionship.
Embarking on a Voyage of Companionship
Through the gentle strumming and mellifluous tone, ‘Waste’ opens its arms to those fighting battles within, offering solace and companionship. The lyrics, ‘I’ll hold your hand when you are feeling mad at me,’ emphasize an unbreakable bond that withstands conflict, akin to a lighthouse standing firm despite the raging storm.
The song is an epitome of patience, where the protagonist does not wish to fix but to accompany. It’s about showing up, being present, and extending a hand even when you become the projected enemy. This quality of standing by someone, even when it’s uncomfortable, echoes throughout the song, laying the foundation of its deep emotional resonance.
The Hidden Meaning Behind The Devil’s Grip
Lyrics like ‘the devil’s on your back but I know you can shake him off,’ resonate as a battle cry against inner turmoil. The devil here can be interpreted as a symbol of our own insecurities and failings – the things that ride our consciousness and inject doubt within our minds.
Yet, the song doesn’t wallow in despair. Instead, it uplifts, urging listeners to recognize their own power and resilience against these mental shackles. The assurance that these demons can be shaken off signals a profound belief in personal strength and redemption, a recurring theme within Foster the People’s discography.
A Sonic Escape from the Chains of Confinement
One of the most compelling aspects of ‘Waste’ is the paradox it presents about freedom making us feel contained. It touches on a rarely discussed sensation where the overwhelming array of choices leads to inertia – symbolized by ‘when the muscles in our legs aren’t used to all the walking.’
This imagery paints a picture of someone unaccustomed to liberation, frozen by their newfound autonomy. In response, ‘Waste’ extends a hand, offering guidance through the uncharted territories of freedom, encouraging movement, growth, and, ultimately, change.
Echoes of Support In Every Memorable Line
The song’s hook, where repetition is key, has lines like ‘And every day that you want to waste, that you want to waste, you can.’ This could be seen as an acceptance of the other’s choices, of being there without judgment—whether they choose to stand still or to stride forward.
Such resounding lines emerge as a mantra of support, suggesting that the act of being there is just as important as the advice one can give. It reassures that the speaker supports whatever choice the listener makes, rooting for their autonomy whilst being their safety net.
Unraveling the Song’s Emotional Tapestry
Fundamentally, ‘Waste’ captures the complexities of human connection. Every verse weaves an intricate layer of understanding, empathy, and mutual respect. Foster the People delivers a harmonious blend of lyrical depth and sonic comfort, making ‘Waste’ a timeless reminder of the power of support.
In essence, the song speaks to the human condition: our fears, our hopes, and our incessant search for a meaningful connection. It’s a song that doesn’t waste a single note or word, captivating listeners as it reveals the beauty in steadfast companionship amidst the arduous journey of life.
