Meaning of "Burning Bridges" by OneRepublic

"Burning Bridges" is a song that captures the emotions of longing for a new and better love while still dealing with the pain and baggage from a past relationship. The lyrics imply that the singer and the person they are addressing were meant to be together, but there is now a realization that the relationship was not what they had both hoped for. The line "I'm building bridges that I know you never wanted" suggests that the singer has been putting effort into rebuilding the relationship, even though the other person may not have wanted the same. This could symbolize the singer's attempts to repair and revive what was lost. However, they also express a desire for closure and moving on, as indicated by the repeated request to "burn my bridges down." This could mean destroying the connection and ties to the past, allowing for a fresh start and the possibility of a new love. The repeated plea to "set me on fire" and the line "You set me" convey a sense of vulnerability and a longing for intense passion and emotion, suggesting that the singer wants a love that ignites their soul. The song also alludes to the idea of filling empty spaces in their heart, but acknowledges that imaginary places and faces do not suffice. Ultimately, "Burning Bridges" tells a story of a person yearning for a transformative and passionate love, while simultaneously acknowledging the need to let go of the past in order to move forward.