At the beginning of the song, Nicks sings, "Just like the White Winged Dove," referencing a symbol of peace. This sets the stage for the journey of finding inner peace and self-realization. She sings about her fear of "falling and breaking" as if she is at a critical point where one wrong step could derail her future.
The lines "Every night in my dreams I see you, I feel you, that is how I know you go on" symbolize the emotional ties that bind individuals together, even in the face of separation. Nicks expresses her strong connection with the loved one by using vivid language to convey the intensity of her feelings.
The song reaches its climax with the chorus, where Stevie sings, "And if you have to leave, leave right now." This line suggests a sense of urgency, as if the decision is between remaining in a difficult situation or starting a brave voyage into the unknown. The title, "Edge of Seventeen," alludes to this pivotal moment in life when one hovers between adolescence and adulthood.
The song ends on a contemplative note with Nicks reflecting, "Every night you come to me in my dreams, and I just want to scream, 'Where have you been?'" These lyrics symbolize the longing for a deeper understanding of the universe and one's place within it. The "scream" represents the desire for answers and a longing for emotional connection.
Overall, "Edge of Seventeen" delves into the depths of human emotion, reflecting on the complexities of love, loss, and the uncertainty of life. Nicks' introspective lyrics and haunting melodies capture the essence of the struggles, aspirations, and self-discovery that come with being on the cusp of adulthood.