Why
The Cranberries Lyrics


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Somewhere in between here and heaven
Somewhere in between where and why
Somewhere in another dimension
I can hear you asking me why

Why?
Why?
Tell me, can you hear me? I'm calling
Tell me you can hear me, don't cry
Tell me that you're not feeling lonely
Somewhere in between where and why

I will wait for you
Will you wait for me?
I will wait for you
Will you wait for me?

Tell me
Tell me
Tell me
Tell me

Somewhere at the crossroads of nowhere
Somewhere at the crossroads of why
Somewhere in another dimension
I can hear you asking me why

Why?
Why?

Will you wait for me?
I will wait for you
Will you wait for me?
I will wait for you

Tell me
Tell me
Tell me
Tell me

Somewhere in between here and Heaven
Somewhere in between where and why
Somewhere in another dimension
I can hear you asking me why

Ooh, ah
Ooh, ah




Ooh, ah
Ooh, ah

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to "Why" by The Cranberries reflect on the longing and questioning that arises from a distance or absence between two people. The song seems to suggest that there is a separation between the singer and the person they are addressing, as they find themselves in another dimension, somewhere between here and heaven, between where and why. This distance creates a sense of longing and confusion.


The repetition of the word "why" throughout the song signifies the singer's desire for answers. They can hear the other person asking them "why," but they are unsure of how to respond or reconcile the situation. This questioning expresses a sense of yearning for clarity and understanding within the relationship.


The chorus emphasizes the theme of waiting. The singer asks if the other person will wait for them, and in turn, they commit to waiting as well. This suggests that both individuals are willing to hold on and be patient despite the uncertainty surrounding their connection.


Overall, "Why" explores the complex emotions that arise when love or a deep connection is tested by obstacles and distance. It delves into the longing for answers and the willingness to wait for resolution, even when the path is unclear.


Line by Line Meaning

Somewhere in between here and heaven
In a place that exists between the earthly realm and paradise


Somewhere in between where and why
In a state of uncertainty between the location and reason


Somewhere in another dimension
In a different realm or plane of existence


I can hear you asking me why
I can sense your inquiry about the reason


Why?
What is the motive or purpose?


Tell me, can you hear me? I'm calling
Inform me, are you able to perceive my voice? I am reaching out


Tell me you can hear me, don't cry
Assure me that you can hear, and refrain from shedding tears


Tell me that you're not feeling lonely
Convey to me that you are not experiencing solitude


Somewhere in between where and why
In a state of uncertainty between the location and reason


I will wait for you
I will remain patient for your arrival


Will you wait for me?
Are you willing to exhibit patience for my presence?


Tell me
Inform me


Somewhere at the crossroads of nowhere
In a place where different paths lead to no specific destination


Somewhere at the crossroads of why
In a place where different paths intersect, seeking a rationale


Will you wait for me?
Are you willing to exhibit patience for my presence?


Tell me
Inform me


Ooh, ah
Vocalized sounds expressing emotions or feelings




Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Dolores Mary O'Riordan

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Aiman Akmal

There should be a movie about the journey of The Cranberries.. Rest in Peace, Dolores. Your voice heal the world. Thank you for your music.

Brian

It's called Dreams, already being worked on

FamilyHistoriandude

Good luck finding someone to play her.

Noor Imelda Elle

Yes u are exactly right. I really miss her very much. Gone too soon! Wuah! 😭

Zoned2Appreciate

Beautiful soul, beautiful voice, and a mind that speaks on behalf of the world. My heart aches when I hear her voice because she is truly missed.

Haziq Azlee

trueee, a movie about their journey cam movie queen tu

doctor time tv

all I had to hear was the first bars of music and the first vocals of why and I instantly loved it. Thank you so much Noel and the rest of the cranberries for honoring us with such a great album and keeping the memory of my favorite female vocalist alive. the cranberries music feels so real to me every song, and it is as if you guys are friends we have all known for a long time. all the best, Eric Miller, fan.

Debbie Rowe

The Gregorian Chant of Ireland... I hear in almost all in Song...R.I.P. Dolores 🌻

Antony Danby

Artists like Dolores only come along once in a persons lifetime. Dolores was the beautiful singer with the amazing voice that came along in my lifetime. I feel eternally grateful I heard that voice... i just wished you had stayed longer. Rest with the angels Dolores !

Aaron Husar

For my grandparents generation I consider that person (in the acting profession) to be James Dean if there has to be only one person. A singer who fits your description would be Buddy Holly and for my parents generation there was Karen Carpenter (for whom Dolores covered the song Close to you). I know there are others I could name but I'm trying to keep it at one.

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