Meaning of Wherever You Are by 5 Seconds of Summer

The overall theme of the song "Wherever You Are" by 5 Seconds of Summer revolves around longing, separation, and the struggle to move on from a past relationship. It explores the intense emotions experienced when two people have to part ways, and the lingering feelings that continue to haunt them even after they've physically separated. The narrative presented in the song takes us through the pain of saying goodbye, the longing to reconnect, and the difficulty of letting go.One standout lyric that contributes to the development of these themes is "For a while, we pretended that we never had to end it, but we knew we'd have to say goodbye." This line acknowledges the temporary nature of the relationship, the inevitable ending that loomed over them. It portrays how the couple tried to ignore the looming farewell, pretending it would never come, only to face the heartbreak of parting ways. The lyric highlights the pain of knowing that something beautiful and meaningful is coming to an end.Another poignant lyric that adds depth to the song is "You were crying at the airport when they finally closed the plane door, I could barely hold it all inside." This line encapsulates the moment of separation, the raw emotions experienced by both individuals as they say their goodbyes. It speaks to the profound impact the relationship had on their lives and the difficulty of letting go. The theme of longing and the desire to be with someone even when they are physically apart is exemplified in this lyric.The chorus of the song is particularly significant, with the repetition of "You, wherever you are" emphasizing the theme of yearning. It showcases the central idea that no matter where they find themselves or how much time passes, the singer's thoughts and emotions are still tied to their former partner. This longing is further emphasized in the line "Every night, I almost call you just to say it always will be you." The singer acknowledges that they are on the verge of reaching out, unable to completely let go of their feelings and the connection they once shared.In the second verse, the lyric "I could fly a thousand oceans, but there's nothing that compares to what we had" reveals the enduring impact of the relationship. It showcases the idea that even though distance separates them, the connection they had is irreplaceable. The theme of holding onto past memories and cherishing what they once had is echoed in this line.The bridge of the song introduces a sense of hope and acceptance, as the lyric "You can say we'll be together someday" suggests the possibility of a future reunion. However, the following line, "Nothing lasts forever, nothing stays the same, so why can't I stop feeling this way?" brings into focus the struggle to move on. It implies the conflict between acknowledging the transience of relationships and simultaneously being unable to let go of the emotions attached to them.Although the themes explored in "Wherever You Are" are not groundbreaking, the song beautifully captures the universal experience of longing for someone who is no longer present. It delves into the conflicting emotions of holding onto the past while knowing that moving on is necessary. The lyrics highlight the inner struggle, the yearning, and the difficulty of saying goodbye. Ultimately, the song prompts listeners to reflect on their own experiences with separation and the lingering emotions that can persist long after a relationship has ended.