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.
Would you stay for one night?
If I didn't come home?
The end of a big fight
Doesn't matter anymore
The point in my midlife
Situation stands
But hours pass like years
Wish you were here
Wish you were here
Did I open an old wound?
Is there something I should know?
If it's all ending so soon
How could I possibly let go?
Comes to a head, this is high noon
The finale we have planned
But hours pass like years
I wish you were here
Say the words so slow
Say it without fear
You won't turn to go
You won't leave me here
The past is all we know
The memories are clear
I wish you were here
If I told you, were you listening?
Did you know this from the start?
Do the dates match exactly?
Your plan when we would part?
If I won't wait for another year
I guess you'll break my heart
It's true
You already knew
So take this as a souvenir
Remember me, I'm waiting here
Disappointed, hanging on
Stayed behind while you moved on
Wish you were here
If I didn't come home?
The end of a big fight
Doesn't matter anymore
The point in my midlife
Situation stands
But hours pass like years
Wish you were here
Wish you were here
Did I open an old wound?
Is there something I should know?
If it's all ending so soon
How could I possibly let go?
Comes to a head, this is high noon
The finale we have planned
But hours pass like years
I wish you were here
Say the words so slow
Say it without fear
You won't turn to go
You won't leave me here
The past is all we know
The memories are clear
I wish you were here
If I told you, were you listening?
Did you know this from the start?
Do the dates match exactly?
Your plan when we would part?
If I won't wait for another year
I guess you'll break my heart
It's true
You already knew
So take this as a souvenir
Remember me, I'm waiting here
Disappointed, hanging on
Stayed behind while you moved on
Wish you were here
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