The song's lyrics describe the speaker's longing for a lost love, personified as a "girl with golden hair." The narrator expresses a sense of regret and longing for a simpler time when they were together. The chorus emphasizes this longing, with Young singing, "I don't want the night to end, let's stay here just a little longer, under the vanilla twilight, let's dance forever."
Musically, "Vanilla Twilight" is a blend of dreamy synth-pop and folk elements. The song features a melancholic melody carried by Young's distinctive vocals, complemented by gentle piano chords, warm synthesizers, and soft percussion. The overall effect is both calming and bittersweet, reflecting the song's nostalgic tone.
The song's title, "Vanilla Twilight," evokes a sense of tenderness and nostalgia. Vanilla is often associated with sweetness and comfort, while twilight represents the transition between day and night, a time of reflection and contemplation. The combination of these elements adds to the song's dreamlike and wistful atmosphere.
Overall, "Vanilla Twilight" is a song that resonates with themes of longing, nostalgia, and the bittersweetness of lost love. Its melancholic and introspective nature has made it a popular track for those looking to connect with their emotions and reflect on their past experiences.