Meaning of "What I Meant To Say" by Wade Hayes

"What I Meant To Say" by Wade Hayes explores the theme of missed opportunities for emotional connection and the regret that comes from not expressing one's true feelings. The lyrics depict a situation where the narrator tells a lie, claiming to be able to say goodbye when in reality they love their partner and want them to stay. As the light of day reveals the truth, the narrator realizes the mistake they made by not conveying their love. This emphasizes the importance of honesty and vulnerability in relationships.

The chorus, "What I meant to say was I love you, What's been killing me is I hurt you," showcases the regret and longing the narrator feels for not expressing their love and causing pain to their partner. The use of the phrase "What I didn't do" implies both a physical and emotional absence. Not only did the narrator fail to hold their partner, but they also missed the opportunity to provide emotional support when their partner was crying. The repetition of the line "What I should have said" further underscores the sense of missed opportunities, suggesting that the narrator is haunted by their inability to express their true feelings.

The second verse introduces a dream wherein the partner is leaving the narrator. This symbolizes the fear and anxiety that the narrator experiences as a result of their actions. The dream serves as a wake-up call, prompting the narrator to plead for their partner's forgiveness and ask them to forget the hurtful things that were said. This highlights the importance of open communication and addressing conflicts head-on instead of suppressing emotions.

Overall, "What I Meant To Say" speaks to the universal experience of regret and the desire to make amends. It serves as a reminder to value honesty and emotional vulnerability in relationships, as withholding one's true feelings can lead to missed opportunities for connection and potentially damage the bond between two individuals.