Meaning of "If I Had You" by Rod Stewart

"If I Had You" by Rod Stewart delves into themes of love, longing, and the belief that having the right person by your side can give you the strength to accomplish anything. The lyrics convey a sense of missed opportunities and regrets, as the singer reflects on seeing the person they desire walking away, seemingly out of reach. Despite this, there is a strong sense of hope and determination, with the singer expressing the conviction that having this person in their life would enable them to change the world. The repeated refrain of "If I could change the world, if I had you" highlights the belief in the transformative power of love and partnership. The mention of the singer's mother offering words of wisdom adds a layer of familial influence and advice, emphasizing the idea of patience and the idea that things will come to those who wait. Overall, the song conveys a mix of yearning, regret, hope, and determination in the pursuit of love and the belief in the power of a special connection to bring about positive change.