Meaning of "Need" by Gavin DeGraw

The lyrics of "Need" delve into the complexities of a toxic relationship and the narrator's perspective on their love interest's struggle to recognize what they truly need. The song highlights the destructive nature of the love interest's current relationship, emphasizing lies, slammed doors, and indecisiveness. Despite the love interest's denial and confusion about what they need, the narrator firmly believes that they need a better person, someone who can offer them a healthier and more fulfilling relationship.

The chorus, which repeats throughout the song, focuses on the love interest awakening in the middle of the night. This moment of vulnerability, symbolized by running makeup and a cold bed, represents a turning point in the love interest's understanding of their needs. In these desperate moments, the love interest will finally see what they truly need and long for – someone who can provide comfort, emotional support, and genuine love.

The narrator's repeated assertion that the love interest has a secret they keep, much like stolen glances, suggests that the love interest may be aware of the narrator's feelings and the possibility of a healthier relationship with them. However, they are reluctant to acknowledge these desires due to their current entanglement.

The message of the song is ultimately one of hope and empowerment. The narrator shows a deep understanding of the love interest's struggles while also encouraging them to recognize their worth and seek a better future. By highlighting the moments of loneliness and the longing for emotional connection, the lyrics suggest that the love interest will eventually awaken to their true needs and pursue a more fulfilling relationship.