Wish I Were Here
Next To Normal
100%
The Struggle for Clarity in a Clouded Mind
“Wish I Were Here” from the musical *Next to Normal* delves into the complex emotions and mental states of its characters, primarily Diana and Natalie. The song captures the tumultuous experience of living with mental illness, particularly bipolar disorder, and the effects of treatment. Diana's lyrics describe a sudden, overwhelming change, likened to a lightning bolt that both blinds and enlightens her. This metaphor illustrates the intense and often unpredictable nature of her mental state, where moments of clarity are interspersed with confusion and pain.
Diana's journey through the song reflects a desperate desire for normalcy and understanding. She speaks of living a life shrouded in
