The lyrics depict a sense of longing and loneliness as the speaker stays awake while their loved one sleeps, yearning for their affection and love, feeling empty and colorless in the absence of their partner's presence.

Meaning of "While You Were Asleep" by OK Go

The lyrics of "While You Were Asleep" by OK Go portrays a profound sense of yearning and emotional desperation. The speaker's inability to sleep while their partner peacefully slumbers emphasizes a deep desire for love and affection that seems unattainable. The repetition of "Can't you love me, how I want? Please" reflects a plea for validation and reciprocation of feelings from the loved one, highlighting the vulnerability and need for connection felt by the speaker. The imagery of walking down a colorless street in the dead of night symbolizes the emptiness and lack of vibrancy in the speaker's life without the love and presence of their partner. Overall, the lyrics portray a raw and emotional depiction of unrequited love and the yearning for connection and emotional fulfillment.