Meaning of "If You Go Away" by New Kids On The Block

"If You Go Away" delves into the theme of regret and the fear of losing someone dear. The speaker begins by acknowledging the pain they have caused and their remorse for hurting their partner. They admit to being careless and blind in the past, but express a deep desire for forgiveness. The speaker emphasizes the importance of their partner in their life, stating that they are the only true thing they have. The lyrics highlight a profound change in the speaker's perspective, as they admit that their life was once empty, perhaps before their partner came into their life. They express a fear of reverting back to that emptiness and desperately pleads for their partner to stay. The lyrics are filled with emotional vulnerability and a recognition of the consequences of their actions. The speaker takes responsibility for their mistakes and begs for another chance to make things right. The repetition of the line "You know I need you" further emphasizes the depth of their love and their realization that they cannot live without their partner. The lyrics communicate a willingness to do anything to regain their partner's trust and affection. The song ends with a plea to never leave, reaffirming the speaker's commitment to the relationship.