The narrator is confessing that they have hidden their true feelings and desires, keeping them submerged like "drowned in water deep." They never wanted the recipient of their affections to know, even though they acknowledge needing them. The narrator dreams of the recipient running away but does not make any effort to stop them. Eventually, they admit that they have denied their feelings for too long and are tired of feeling lost and numb. They express a desire to be open and honest, no longer hiding their true emotions.

Meaning of "I Never Really" by Anna Leone

The lyrics of "I Never Really" explore the theme of vulnerability and the fear of exposing one's true feelings. The narrator reveals a struggle between their genuine desire for connection and their hesitancy to be open and vulnerable. The repetition of "No, I never really wanted you to know" implies a fear of rejection or the potential consequences of revealing their emotions. The water imagery, such as "drowned in water deep," suggests a sense of being overwhelmed or submerged by their inner turmoil. The dreams of the recipient running away while they remain motionless represent a fear of being abandoned or rejected if they were to pursue their true desires. However, as the song progresses, the narrator grows tired of hiding their feelings, recognizing the toll it has taken on them. They are ready to break free from their self-imposed constraints, to stop denying their emotions, and to embrace vulnerability. This acknowledgment marks a pivotal moment of self-discovery and the potential for growth and authentic connection.