Wanderlust

Nightwish's song 'Wanderlust' is a poetic exploration of the human desire for adventure and discovery. The lyrics paint vivid images of natural wonders and mythical elements, such as sirens, wolves, and the deep Pacific waters. These elements symbolize the allure of the unknown and the beauty of the natural world. The song's protagonist expresses a yearning to experience these wonders firsthand, to dance in coral fields and discover hidden jungles, reflecting a deep-seated wanderlust that drives them to seek out new experiences and places.

The chorus emphasizes that the journey itself is more important than the destination. The lines 'It's not the end / Not the kingdom come / It is the journey that matters' highlight a philosophical perspective on life. This viewpoint suggests that the value lies in the experiences and growth one gains along the way, rather than in reaching a final goal. The 'distant wanderer' and 'call of the wild' represent an eternal quest for knowledge and adventure, a theme that resonates with the band's symphonic and often epic musical style.

The song also touches on themes of love and connection with nature. References to loving by the Blue Lagoon and kissing under the waning Moon evoke a sense of romanticism intertwined with the natural world. The imagery of riding dolphins and dreaming of Alaska further underscores a deep connection to the Earth and its wonders. The final lines, 'Drown into my eyes and see the wanderer / See the mirrors of a wolf behold the pathfinder,' suggest a profound inner journey, where the protagonist's eyes reflect their adventurous spirit and their role as a seeker of new paths.