Song meaning of Waiting by James Vincent McMorrow

The lyrics of the song "Waiting" by James Vincent McMorrow convey a mix of emotions, primarily centered around the themes of longing, self-reflection, and the pursuit of happiness. The song begins with the protagonist expressing their vulnerability by crying in their car and acknowledging their tendency to be sad. However, someone in their life appreciates their appearance but feels they talk too much. This contradicting feedback highlights the complexity of human emotions and perceptions.

In the pre-chorus, the narrator reflects on their interaction with this person, expressing happiness at their presence and a sense of openness in their heart. The chorus suggests that this individual sees the narrator in a way they never saw themselves before, providing them with a newfound hope. This person waits for the narrator's hope to return, while the narrator is always waiting, possibly for their own self-discovery or for this person to fulfill their expectations.

In verse two, the narrator describes the growth they have experienced together, using the symbol of a house they once dreamt about. They explain that all they needed was some brightness, symbolized by ultraviolet light, to inject life into their veins. This imagery suggests a desire for rejuvenation and a pursuit of a more vibrant existence.

The second chorus reinforces the idea of being seen and understood by this person, with the narrator realizing their own potential. However, it also implies an ongoing waiting for this person, possibly indicating a sense of dependency and uncertainty in the relationship.

The outro expresses apologies for not revealing enough and acknowledges a mutual regret that the narrator is still "a dime in the rough," implying that they feel unpolished or incomplete. They wait for the next flood, symbolizing a significant change or turning point. The song concludes with the narrator acknowledging their perpetual waiting.

Overall, the lyrics of "Waiting" depict a longing for understanding, self-discovery, and the anticipation of a transformative experience. It captures the complex emotions and vulnerabilities that arise in relationships and the pursuit of personal growth.