Meaning of "What If You" by Joshua Radin

"What If You" explores the complex emotions and uncertainties experienced in a relationship that is on the brink of dissolution. The song adopts a melancholic tone as the narrator contemplates the hypothetical scenario of being wished away and the potential consequences of leaving. The lyrics convey a sense of longing for connection and validation, as the narrator wonders if their presence truly matters to the other person, or if they will only be missed once they are gone.

Throughout the song, there is a juxtaposition between the desire to part ways and the simultaneous desire to remain for one more night. This internal conflict reflects the ambivalence and indecisiveness often felt when faced with the end of a relationship. The narrator acknowledges their own shortcomings, admitting that they could have treated the other person better. This admission implies a sense of regret and remorse, suggesting that the relationship may have reached a breaking point due to their own actions.

The lyrics also touch upon the theme of change and the transitory nature of relationships. The mention of the sun hitting the other person's eyes through their window symbolizes the dawning reality that the relationship is coming to an end. The line "There'll be nothing you can do" implies that once the morning comes, both individuals will have to face the irreversible consequences of their actions, unable to salvage what has been lost.

Overall, "What If You" captures the bittersweet essence of a failing relationship, blending vulnerability, longing, and self-reflection into its lyrics. It portrays the emotional complexity of parting ways, examining the regrets and uncertainties that arise during the final stages of a connection. The song serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of relationships, urging listeners to cherish and appreciate the present before it inevitably changes.