Opening Up

“Opening Up” from the musical *Waitress* captures the essence of daily life in a small-town diner, where the characters navigate the monotony and predictability of their routines. The song opens with Jenna, the protagonist, humorously fumbling over the name of a pie, setting the tone for a day that mirrors countless others. The lyrics reflect the repetitive nature of their work, with lines like “The day starts like the rest we've seen” and “Another carbon copy of an old routine,” emphasizing the cyclical pattern of their lives.

Despite the mundane tasks, there is a sense of camaraderie and resilience among the characters. Jenna, Becky, and Dawn, the waitresses, find solace in their shared experiences, even as they acknowledge the unchanging nature of their days. The chorus, “Opening up, letting the day in,” suggests a willingness to embrace each day, no matter how similar it may be to the last. This acceptance is further highlighted by the repeated phrases “Hello, how ya been?” and “Thank you, come again!” which underscore the constancy of their interactions with customers.

The song also touches on the idea of finding contentment in the familiar. Becky’s line, “A small town like ours ain't much, but sometimes home is where your ass ends up,” speaks to the notion that home and happiness can be found in the most unassuming places. Dawn’s appreciation for the predictability of her days, “Everything in its place and time, and I like the way most of the days look exactly the same,” reinforces this theme. Ultimately, “Opening Up” is a celebration of the small moments and the strength found in routine, reminding us that even in the most ordinary of days, there is beauty and purpose.