The Wait

The Pretenders' song 'The Wait' delves into the emotional turbulence and existential angst experienced by a young person, referred to as the 'wait child.' The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a youth caught in a cycle of waiting and hurting, symbolizing the struggles and frustrations of growing up. The repeated use of 'child' emphasizes the innocence and vulnerability of the protagonist, who is navigating through various stages and settings of life, such as pool halls, bus stops, and neon-lit streets. These locations serve as metaphors for the different challenges and disappointments faced during adolescence.

The song's chorus, 'Oh gonna hurt some child, child, gonna hurt some whoa my baby,' underscores the inevitability of pain and hardship in the journey of growing up. The 'wait child' is depicted as a 'magic child' and a 'pinball child,' suggesting a sense of potential and unpredictability. However, this potential is marred by the harsh realities of life, as indicated by phrases like 'bruised ball child' and 'pride slapped child.' The repetition of 'hurts' throughout the song reinforces the theme of enduring pain and the emotional scars that come with it.

Chrissie Hynde's raw and emotive vocal delivery adds depth to the song's narrative, making the listener feel the weight of the 'wait child's' struggles. The Pretenders' blend of punk rock and new wave elements provides a gritty backdrop that complements the song's themes of disillusionment and resilience. 'The Wait' captures the essence of youthful angst and the bittersweet process of growing up, making it a poignant and relatable anthem for anyone who has ever felt the sting of waiting and the ache of unmet expectations.