Meaning of "Never Knew" by Gary Barlow

"Never Knew" portrays the emotional journey of someone who did not anticipate the extent to which they would miss a significant other after parting ways. The wrenching pain of separation is vividly expressed through imagery of walking on a road to nowhere and feeling suffocated by walls closing in. The sudden realization of the depth of their emotions hits hard, leading to a desperate need to reach out and reconnect, symbolized by calling out for love. The mention of stars taking the singer back in time to when only love mattered serves as a reminder of the pure, unadulterated joy that affection once brought. Ultimately, the song captures the raw vulnerability and heartache that accompanies unexpected loss and the longing for a love that once defined existence.