The song lyrics were written by the band Van Halen, as they were asked to write a song for the 1979 movie "Over the Edge" starring Matt Dillon. The movie (and the lyrics, although more obliquely) are about bored, rebellious youth with nothing better to do than get into trouble. If you see the movie, these lyrics will make more sense. It's a great movie if you grew up in the 70s/80s you'll definitely remember some of these characters from your own life. Fun fact, after writing the song, Van Halen decided not to let the movie use it.
On the beach overseas
icy water slaps at our knees
and the buoy was signaling
as if it knew we were far from home
and you looked at me
and all I could see
were the lights that were flickering
and suddenly we were all alone
It's not an impossible thing to do
and I'm helpless to do anything for you
can't keep from wondering
You were under a spell
waiting for time to tell
if I could, you know I would,
accept this moment and sympathize
Then you looked at me
and all I can see
were the walls closing in again
and the desperation in your eyes
It's not an impossible thing to do
I know there's a better life for you
I can't keep from wondering
It's not an impossible thing to do
and I'm helpless to say anything to you
I want to see a better life for you
I can't keep from wondering
icy water slaps at our knees
and the buoy was signaling
as if it knew we were far from home
and you looked at me
and all I could see
were the lights that were flickering
and suddenly we were all alone
It's not an impossible thing to do
and I'm helpless to do anything for you
can't keep from wondering
You were under a spell
waiting for time to tell
if I could, you know I would,
accept this moment and sympathize
Then you looked at me
and all I can see
were the walls closing in again
and the desperation in your eyes
It's not an impossible thing to do
I know there's a better life for you
I can't keep from wondering
It's not an impossible thing to do
and I'm helpless to say anything to you
I want to see a better life for you
I can't keep from wondering
Lyrics submitted by rachel lauren
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