The speaker is overwhelmed by feelings for someone but lacks the courage to express them, imagining various scenarios where they could confess their emotions but always holding back. The fear of rejection and vulnerability prevents them from taking a chance on love.

Meaning of "Not Tonight" by Elle Varner

The lyrics of "Not Tonight" by Elle Varner paint a picture of unspoken feelings and missed opportunities in love. The speaker is paralyzed by fear and self-doubt, unable to find the courage to express their emotions to the person they care about. The constant internal struggle between the desire to take a chance on love and the fear of rejection is a universal theme that many can relate to. The reference to a "Cinderella story" suggests a longing for a fairy tale ending, where the speaker's feelings are reciprocated without the need for vulnerability. Ultimately, the lyrics capture the bittersweet feeling of unrequited love and the longing for a different reality where the speaker could be brave enough to take a leap of faith.