Older

Ben Platt's song 'Older' is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the human tendency to yearn for different stages of life. The lyrics capture a moment of introspection as the narrator walks down 57th Street, contemplating his future and the plans he has yet to fulfill. This everyday scene is interrupted by an encounter with a gray-haired man whose knowing gaze and wise words prompt the narrator to reconsider his perspective on aging and the passage of time.

The song's chorus encapsulates a universal truth: when we are young, we often wish to be older, imagining that age will bring freedom and fulfillment. Conversely, as we grow older, we long for the simplicity and endless possibilities of youth. Platt's lyrics caution against allowing this cycle of longing to close off our sense of wonder and possibility. Instead, he encourages listeners to embrace the present moment and the opportunities it holds, rather than constantly looking forward or backward.

Throughout the song, Platt questions whether he has truly lived authentically, expressing fears of having stifled his thoughts or missed chances to speak his mind. This introspection is a call to action, urging us to seize the present and live fully, rather than waiting for some future moment to begin truly living. The song's message is both a reminder and a challenge: to know ourselves, to love deeply, and to remain open to the world around us, regardless of our age.