The lyrics describe a man who contemplates how he would spend his time if his significant other ever left. He would drink more, spend time with a friend, fish, and reminisce about old memories, but ultimately feels lost without his partner.

Meaning of "If You Ever Went Away" by John Michael Montgomery

The lyrics of "If You Ever Went Away" express the deep significance of the narrator's relationship with his partner. The imagery of drinking more, spending time with a friend, fishing, and reminiscing about old memories all highlight how the absence of his partner would lead him to try to fill the void with various distractions. However, the recurring refrain "If you stay I'm gonna love you" underscores the narrator's awareness of the importance of his partner in his life. Despite the potential for temptation or longing for the past, the narrator ultimately acknowledges that without his partner, he would be lost. The lyrics capture the vulnerability and emotion that come with the fear of losing someone dear and convey a message of appreciation for the presence of a loved one.