Meaning of "Running Back" by Jessica Mauboy

The lyrics of "Running Back" express the turmoil and conflicting emotions of being in a dysfunctional relationship. The singer reveals her disappointment and longing as her partner gradually withdraws and neglects their connection. She questions what is causing this distance and expresses her heartbreak at the realization that being with him only means feeling alone. However, she also admits her inability to move on, clinging to the fragments of their shared past and hoping for a change.

The repetition of the phrase "running back" in the chorus signifies the continuous cycle of returning to someone who treats her poorly. It reflects the complex nature of love and the difficulty of breaking free from a toxic relationship. The repetition further emphasizes the singer's struggle to let go and move on despite the pain she endures.

The inclusion of the rap verse adds another layer to the song's meaning. The rap describes a common situation where a woman stays committed to a partner who repeatedly hurts her. The lines highlight the recognition of this pattern and the acknowledgment that she is partially responsible for enabling it. It underscores the challenge of breaking free from such a relationship and the internal struggle that often accompanies it.

Overall, "Running Back" explores the themes of love, longing, and heartbreak, depicting the internal conflict and emotional turmoil experienced when one is torn between holding onto a connection and recognizing its destructiveness.