Meaning of "Honest" by The Chainsmokers

The lyrics of "Honest" by The Chainsmokers explore themes of distance, longing, and the struggle to communicate one's true feelings. The narrator finds themselves on the radio in the early hours of the morning, feeling lost and unsure of what to say. They mention a girl who is interested in them, but the narrator acknowledges that this connection is superficial and shallow. The real weight on their mind is the person they are addressing, whom they cannot stop thinking about. Despite keeping these feelings to themselves, the narrator realizes that honesty is important and decides to open up. The repetition of the phrase "If I'm being honest" serves as a reminder to both the audience and the narrator themselves that expressing true emotions is necessary for growth and understanding in relationships.

The song encapsulates the challenge of maintaining a connection while being physically apart, highlighting the vulnerability and longing that can arise from distance. The narrator is on the road and admits to not enjoying it, emphasizing the sacrifice and strain that the demands of their profession place on their personal life. This conflict is evident in the line "I'm so far away from you," conveying a sense of yearning and the emotional toll that constant separation takes.

The concept of honesty permeates throughout the song, revealing the internal struggle faced by the narrator. They admit to thinking about the person they are addressing every night, yet they keep these feelings hidden, perhaps out of fear or uncertainty. The repeated line "You said I should be honest, so I'm being honest" demonstrates the influence and importance of the other person's words in guiding the narrator's decision to reveal their true feelings. This decision is an act of vulnerability and a step towards genuine connection.

Ultimately, "Honest" by The Chainsmokers captures the emotional complexity of a long-distance relationship and the importance of honesty in fostering genuine connections. It serves as a reminder that true intimacy requires the willingness to be open and vulnerable, even in challenging circumstances.