Wasted

The song dives into the struggles of love, highlighting how it can be both a source of joy and pain. There’s a sense of urgency in the lyrics, as the speaker fears that their relationship is fading. They’re asking their partner to recognize the worth of their bond and to fight for it, rather than letting it fall apart. It’s a raw and emotional look at love’s fragility.

Verse 1

Whatever it was, I wish it was here right now
Born in the frost, bitterness all dried out
Whatever the cost
There isn't a river that I wouldn't cross for you
Wouldn't cross for you

In this verse, the speaker reflects on a past that feels distant yet significant. They wish they could bring back a better time, hinting at a relationship that’s gone through tough moments. The imagery of crossing rivers shows their willingness to go to great lengths for love, emphasizing their commitment. The idea of “bitterness all dried out” suggests they’re ready to move past hurt, but they need their partner to meet them halfway.

Chorus

How could we go on, go on
Go on and leave this love of ours to die?
When it could be the one, the one
The one that brings this body back to life

The chorus is the emotional heart of the song. Here, the speaker questions how they could let their love die when it still has the potential to revive them. It conveys a sense of desperation. They recognize the value of their relationship and fear losing it. The repetition of “go on” highlights their struggle and the weight of that decision. It’s a powerful moment that captures the essence of their longing.

Verse 2

If you want the truth, these years have been kind and cruel
But looking at you, it's splitting my heart in two
Are you cutting me loose?
'Cause you can see that half of me will always leave this room

In the second verse, the speaker lays bare their vulnerability. They acknowledge that their years together have had ups and downs, which adds depth to their feelings. The line “splitting my heart in two” shows the conflict they feel, torn between love and pain. They’re questioning whether their partner is ready to end things, which creates a sense of uncertainty. It’s a relatable and raw expression of fear in love.

Chorus

But how could we go on, go on
Go on and leave this love of ours to die?
When it could be the one, the one
The one that brings this body back to life

This chorus mirrors the previous one, reinforcing the speaker's desperation. It emphasizes their unwillingness to let go without a fight. The repetition makes it feel even more urgent. They’re clinging to hope that their love can be revived, which adds an emotional weight to the plea.

Bridge

Don't leave me standing out here, no
Please don't leave me standing out here tonight
Don't leave me standing out here, no
Please don't leave me standing out here tonight

In the bridge, the speaker’s plea becomes more personal. They’re asking their partner not to abandon them, feeling isolated and vulnerable. The repetition of “standing out here” evokes a sense of being left in the cold, both literally and metaphorically. It captures the fear of being alone and the longing for connection. It’s a raw and emotional moment that drives home their desperation.

Chorus

Go on, go on
Go on and leave this love of ours to die
When it could be the one, the one
The one that brings this body back to life

The chorus returns, reinforcing the song's intense emotion. The urgency is palpable as the speaker reiterates their fears. They’re still battling with the idea of losing something precious, making the listener feel the weight of their words. It’s a reminder of the stakes involved in their love.

Outro

Don't make this something we wasted
Something too gone to get back
Don't make this something we wasted
I won't forgive us for that

In the outro, the speaker expresses a strong desire not to let their love become a regret. They fear looking back and wishing they had fought harder. The finality in their words suggests that they believe losing this love would be unforgivable. It leaves a lasting impact, highlighting the importance of their connection.

Closing Thoughts

"Wasted" is a powerful exploration of love's complexities. Dermot Kennedy paints a vivid picture of longing, vulnerability, and the fear of loss. The emotional weight of the lyrics, combined with his heartfelt delivery, makes it relatable. It’s a reminder that love is worth fighting for, and we should cherish it before it slips away.