Meaning of "If You Knew" by Jeff Buckley

The lyrics of "If You Knew" convey a sense of desperate longing and yearning for the presence and love of another person. The speaker emphasizes the intensity of their emotions, stating that if the other person truly knew how much they were missed, they would not stay away. This reveals the speaker's vulnerability and a strong desire for the other person to recognize the depth of their feelings.

The phrase "Don't you know how I need you" further underscores the speaker's dependence on the other person's presence in their life. They express a sense of incompleteness without this person, suggesting that their happiness and well-being are contingent upon their presence. This conveys the idea of finding solace and fulfillment in a romantic relationship and highlights the speaker's longing for connection and intimacy.

The repetition of the lines "I can't go on without you" and "Forever and a day" reinforces the speaker's desperate need for this person. They feel that their life cannot continue without their love and express a desire for an everlasting bond. The phrase "Together, never parted" further emphasizes this longing for a lasting connection and suggests a fear of separation or loss.

The use of possessive language, such as "Just you, just me, my love" and "Your heart, your soul, my love," demonstrates the speaker's deep affection and attachment to the other person. They see the other person's heart and soul as an integral part of their own love and identity, illustrating a sense of unity and interdependence.

Overall, the lyrics of "If You Knew" convey a passionate and heartfelt plea for love, companionship, and a lasting connection. The speaker's words reflect a deep sense of need, vulnerability, and longing for the other person, emphasizing the importance of their presence in their life and the depth of their love.