"This Wish" by Ariana DeBose is a powerful anthem about breaking free from societal limitations and striving for a better future. The lyrics delve into the complexities of personal growth, questioning conformity and seeking a brighter path.

Verse 1:

• "Isn't truth supposed to set you free? Well, why do I feel so weighed down by it?": DeBose starts by questioning the very concept of truth and its supposed liberating power. This implies that she's experienced a reality where truth feels oppressive, possibly because of societal expectations or imposed limitations.
• "If I could show them everything I've seen / Open their eyes to all the lies then / Would they change their minds like I did?": This reveals DeBose's desire to expose the truth to others, hoping to inspire them to break free from their own limitations as she has.
• "But when I speak, they tell me, 'Sit down'": This line exemplifies the silencing of her voice, reflecting the challenges faced by those who dare to challenge the status quo.
• "But how can I when I've already started running?": Despite the suppression, DeBose emphasizes her commitment to her journey of self-discovery and growth, refusing to be held back.
• "Oh, this is where we've been, but it's not where we belong / And I may be young, but I know I'm not wrong": DeBose asserts her belief in a better future, declaring that the current situation isn't satisfactory and expressing confidence in her own perspective.

Chorus:

• "So I look up at the stars to guide me / And throw caution to every warning sign": This signifies a commitment to finding a new path, leaving behind the limitations imposed by societal norms and expectations. DeBose is willing to embrace the unknown and challenge the status quo.
• "If knowing what it could be is what drives me / Then let me be the first to stand in line": She embraces her ambition and desire for a better world, choosing to be a pioneer and leader in the pursuit of this vision.
• "So I make this wish / To have something more for us than this": This powerful declaration underscores her desire for a brighter future, not just for herself but for everyone.

Verse 2:

• "I never knew I needed room to grow / Yeah, I did what I was told when someone told me 'no'": DeBose reflects on her past, acknowledging how societal expectations have shaped her actions.
• "Now I've got all of this freedom in my bones / But I've still got the lid on, so it doesn't overflow": This illustrates the internal conflict of embracing freedom while still holding back due to past conditioning and fears.
• "I'm past dipping my toes in / But I'm not, no, I'm not past diving in": She demonstrates her willingness to fully embrace the unknown, despite reservations and anxieties.
• "If I could just be pointed in any given direction / On where to go and what to do / My legs are shaking, but my head's held high / The way you always taught me to": This reflects a desire for guidance and direction as she embarks on this new journey, drawing strength from her past experiences and the values she's been taught.

Chorus (reprise):

• The chorus repeats, emphasizing the recurring theme of wishing for a better future and the courage to embrace the unknown.

Outro:

• "So I make this wish / To have something more for us than this": This powerful ending serves as a call to action, reminding us that we all have the power to dream of a better world and to make that dream a reality.

In conclusion, "This Wish" encapsulates the journey of self-discovery, breaking free from societal expectations, and the determination to build a brighter future. DeBose's lyrics speak to the struggles of navigating a world of conflicting messages and the unwavering belief in the power of dreams and aspirations. The song serves as an anthem for those who dare to challenge the norm and strive for something more, inspiring listeners to embrace their own potential for growth and transformation.