The narrator reflects on his past reckless behavior and the regret he feels for not knowing that his true love would come into his life one day, wishing he could have saved himself for her. Despite his past mistakes, he pleads for a fresh start with her, leaving the past behind and focusing on the love they can share in the present.

Meaning of "If I Knew" by Bruno Mars

The lyrics of "If I Knew" convey a sense of regret and longing for lost innocence and missed opportunities. The narrator reflects on his previous wild ways and how if he had known his true love would come one day, he wouldn't have made the same mistakes. There is a feeling of nostalgia for a simpler time, represented by the wish to be seventeen again and experience the innocence of young love. The narrator acknowledges the hurt he has caused his love interest but pleads for a fresh start, wanting to leave the past behind and move forward with a newfound appreciation for love. Overall, the song speaks to the idea of redemption, growth, and learning from past mistakes in order to cherish and nurture present relationships.