Waving Through a Window

Ben Platt's 'Waving Through a Window' is a poignant exploration of isolation and the yearning for connection. The song, featured in the musical 'Dear Evan Hansen,' delves into the internal struggles of the protagonist, who feels perpetually on the outside looking in. The lyrics vividly depict the fear of making mistakes and the resulting self-imposed isolation. The metaphor of 'slamming on the brake before turning the key' illustrates the protagonist's hesitation and anxiety about engaging with the world, fearing judgment and rejection.

The recurring imagery of 'waving through a window' symbolizes the protagonist's attempts to reach out and connect with others, only to feel invisible and unheard. This metaphor captures the essence of feeling trapped behind an invisible barrier, unable to break through to meaningful interactions. The repeated lines 'On the outside, always looking in' and 'tap, tap, tapping on the glass' emphasize the persistent sense of being an outsider, longing for acknowledgment and understanding.

The song also touches on the disillusionment that comes with unmet expectations. The lines 'We start with stars in our eyes, we start believing that we belong' reflect the initial hope and optimism that eventually give way to the harsh reality of feeling lost and disconnected. The haunting question, 'When you're falling in a forest and there's nobody around, do you ever really crash or even make a sound?' underscores the existential crisis of wondering if one's struggles and existence even matter if they go unnoticed. Through its heartfelt lyrics and emotive delivery, 'Waving Through a Window' resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt isolated, unseen, or unheard.