Meaning of "You Never Knew" by Haim

"You Never Knew" delves into the complexities of a relationship where one person feels unappreciated and misunderstood. The lyrics convey a sense of longing as the narrator expresses their love and desire for their partner to be there for them. However, they feel burdened by the weight of their partner's indifference and lack of effort in reciprocating their love.

The repeated lines, "You couldn't take it," highlight the partner's inability to handle the narrator's love and the strain it places on their relationship. It suggests that the partner was unable to understand or value the depth of emotions the narrator had for them, resulting in a constant state of conflict and disappointment.

The narrator's repeated plea for their partner to say what they truly feel reflects their need for honesty and clarity. They want their partner to acknowledge if their love was too overwhelming and admit any fear or reservations they may have had. By doing so, the narrator seeks closure and validation for the effort and sacrifices they made for the relationship.

The line, "Don't keep me waiting, to the words that you're too scared to say," reveals the frustration the narrator feels towards their partner's reluctance to communicate their true feelings. The narrator implores their partner to be straightforward and confront their fears, rather than leaving the narrator in a state of uncertainty and longing.

Overall, "You Never Knew" explores the pain and disappointment of unrequited love, capturing the frustration of not being appreciated or understood by a partner. The lyrics delve into the complexity of emotions experienced in a failing relationship, highlighting the longing for reciprocation, honesty, and emotional vulnerability.