Meaning of Wake Me Up by Ed Sheeran

In Ed Sheeran's beautiful ballad "Wake Me Up," he tells a poignant story about love, appreciation, and the small moments that make a relationship special. The song's overall theme revolves around the idea of cherishing someone, being grateful for their presence in your life, and finding beauty in the ordinary. Sheeran's lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and heartfelt emotions, providing a canvas for multiple standout themes to emerge.One standout lyric is, "I should ink my skin with your name." This line suggests a deep commitment to the person being addressed in the song. Beyond the surface-level romantic gesture, it speaks to the idea of permanence and a desire to make a lasting impression. It highlights the theme of loyalty and devotion, emphasizing the importance of the relationship and the willingness to go above and beyond to show love.Another notable line is, "And if your DVD breaks today, you should've got a VCR." This seemingly simple statement explores the theme of nostalgia and finding joy in simplicity. It reflects on the idea that material possessions hold sentimental value and can become a part of shared memories. The use of outdated technology like a VCR symbolizes the importance of preserving memories and holding onto things that might seem trivial to others, but hold great significance for a couple.The lyric, "And your eyes turn from green to gray, in the winter I'll hold you in a cold place," evokes a sense of vulnerability and emotional connection. The color change in the eyes represents the changing seasons and the passing of time. It suggests that even in the coldest of moments, the persona will be there to provide warmth and comfort. This theme emphasizes the importance of being there for someone not just during their happiest times but also during their lowest moments.In the line, "And now a piece of me is a piece of the beach," Sheeran explores the theme of shared experiences and the connection between nature and love. The act of carving a heart pendant with a pebble and wearing it close to the chest signifies the bond between the two individuals. It symbolizes a piece of oneself becoming intertwined with the essence of the beach, representing the natural and unbreakable connection that exists between them.The song also touches on the theme of self-acceptance and embracing imperfections. Sheeran mentions his lack of gaming skills and how he always loses to the brother of his partner. This lighthearted reference reveals the importance of humility and being able to laugh at oneself. It implies that love is not about winning or being perfect but rather about enjoying each other's company and finding joy in shared experiences, even if it means being the one who always loses.Ultimately, "Wake Me Up" captures the essence of an intimate and genuine relationship. It celebrates the beauty of ordinary moments, highlighting the significance of the little things that often go unnoticed. Through its imaginative and unexpected themes, the song reminds us to appreciate and cherish those we love, to find meaning in the smallest gestures, and to embrace imperfections as part of the journey of love and connection. In this heartfelt ballad, Ed Sheeran reminds us that waking up to love is a gift that should never be taken for granted.