Meaning of "Mean It" by K.Flay

The lyrics of "Mean It" delve into various themes related to identity, family, and the struggle for authenticity. The song begins with K.Flay reflecting on her upbringing, specifically mentioning her parents. While she acknowledges the importance of the lessons they taught her, she also expresses a sense of disconnect from their values. The line "I was raised to be so damn faithful, I didn't need a god" suggests a rejection of blind adherence to rules and traditions, indicating a desire for independent thought and a need for personal conviction rather than relying solely on external figures of authority.

K.Flay then introduces the story of her grandmother and a necklace that holds sentimental value. This necklace represents a connection to her family's history and serves as a reminder of what life could have been. It symbolizes her grandfather's dreams and aspirations that may have been unfulfilled. This story highlights the impact of personal history and the weight of missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential.

The chorus of the song reinforces the central message of authenticity and intentionality in words and actions. K.Flay desires to truly mean her expressions of love and wants to avoid the trap of saying things she doesn't truly feel or believe. She recognizes the importance of sincerity and the potential harm that empty words can cause. The line "I know not to say yes to just anything" further emphasizes her commitment to value and meaning.

The second verse shifts focus to K.Flay's own role as a mother. She expresses the hope of dying next to her daughter and the desire to pass on her own lessons while still acknowledging her own mistakes. By teaching her daughter the importance of resilience and staying faithful to what she loves, K.Flay hopes to empower her to navigate life's challenges. The line "So when the world gets painful, you become your own god" underscores the idea of personal agency and the need to rely on oneself during difficult times.

The song concludes by acknowledging the limitations and uncertainties of life and the inevitability of change. K.Flay mentions daydreaming about a mythical life but recognizes the fleeting nature of time and the impossibility of reliving certain moments. This realization further underlines the significance of truly meaning one's words and actions in the present.

Overall, "Mean It" serves as a reflection on the importance of authenticity, intentionality, and meaningful connections in a world often filled with empty words and superficial interactions.