I think much like another song “Anti-Matter” (that's also on the same album as this song), this one is also is inspired by a horrifying van crash the band experienced on Nov 3, 2022. This, much like the other track, sounds like it's an extension what they shared while huddled in the wreckage, as they helped frontman Garrett Russell stem the bleeding from his head wound while he was under the temporary effects of a concussion. The track speaks of where the mind goes at the most desperate & desolate of times, when it just about slips away to all but disconnect itself, and the aftermath.
I woke up today sinkin' like the stones that you have thrown
Wounded by the same old shots you take
It's easier to kick me when I'm low
And I just thought that you should know
That I've been holding on while you've been letting go
Well, it's not too late to say it right this time
'Cause I know I said I'm sorry but that's not what I meant to say
I'm strong enough to say that I don't wanna take the high road now
This is so typical of you to walk away
When your perfect little world is burning down
And I just thought that you should know
That I've been holding on while you've been letting go
Can I be so bold?
'Cause all this sucking up to you is just getting old
Well, it's not too late to say it right this time
Cause I know I said I'm sorry but that's not what I meant to say
What I really meant to say with every little breath I take
I'm not the only one who makes mistakes
Just think of all the ones you've made
And I just thought that you should know
That I've been holding on while you've been letting go
Can I be so bold?
'Cause all this sucking up to you is just getting old
Well, it's not too late to say it right this time
Cause I know I said I'm sorry but that's not what I meant to say
Not what I meant to say
Can I be so bold?
'Cause all this sucking up to you is just getting old
Well, it's not too late to say it right this time
'Cause I know I said I'm sorry but that's not what I meant to say
Wounded by the same old shots you take
It's easier to kick me when I'm low
And I just thought that you should know
That I've been holding on while you've been letting go
Well, it's not too late to say it right this time
'Cause I know I said I'm sorry but that's not what I meant to say
I'm strong enough to say that I don't wanna take the high road now
This is so typical of you to walk away
When your perfect little world is burning down
And I just thought that you should know
That I've been holding on while you've been letting go
Can I be so bold?
'Cause all this sucking up to you is just getting old
Well, it's not too late to say it right this time
Cause I know I said I'm sorry but that's not what I meant to say
What I really meant to say with every little breath I take
I'm not the only one who makes mistakes
Just think of all the ones you've made
And I just thought that you should know
That I've been holding on while you've been letting go
Can I be so bold?
'Cause all this sucking up to you is just getting old
Well, it's not too late to say it right this time
Cause I know I said I'm sorry but that's not what I meant to say
Not what I meant to say
Can I be so bold?
'Cause all this sucking up to you is just getting old
Well, it's not too late to say it right this time
'Cause I know I said I'm sorry but that's not what I meant to say
Lyrics submitted by dontwasteyoursong
What I Meant To Say Lyrics as written by Brian Howes Chris Daughtry
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Lyrics powered by LyricFind
Add your thoughts
Log in now to tell us what you think this song means.
Don’t have an account? Create an account with SongMeanings to post comments, submit lyrics, and more. It’s super easy, we promise!
More Featured Meanings
Dreamwalker
Silent Planet
Silent Planet
Just A Little Lovin'
Dusty Springfield
Dusty Springfield
I don't think it's necessarily about sex. It's about wanting to start the day with some love and affection. Maybe a warm cuddle. I'm not alone in interpreting it that way! For example:
"'Just a Little Lovin’ is a timeless country song originally recorded by Eddy Arnold in 1954. The song, written by Eddie Miller and Jimmy Campbell, explores the delicate nuances of love and showcases Arnold’s emotive vocals. It delves into the universal theme of love and how even the smallest gesture of affection can have a profound impact on our lives." https://oldtimemusic.com/the-meaning-behind-the-song-just-a-little-lovin-by-eddy-arnold/
Head > Heels
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran
“Head > Heels” is a track that aims to capture what it feels like to experience romance that exceeds expectations. Ed Sheeran dedicates his album outro to a lover who has blessed him with a unique experience that he seeks to describe through the song’s nuanced lyrics.
Amazing
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran tells a story of unsuccessfully trying to feel “Amazing.” This track is about the being weighed down by emotional stress despite valiant attempts to find some positivity in the situation. This track was written by Ed Sheeran from the perspective of his friend. From the track, we see this person fall deeper into the negative thoughts and slide further down the path of mental torment with every lyric.
American Town
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran shares a short story of reconnecting with an old flame on “American Town.” The track is about a holiday Ed Sheeran spends with his countrywoman who resides in America. The two are back together after a long period apart, and get around to enjoying a bunch of fun activities while rekindling the flames of their romance.
Basically, it's about telling someone you are sorry and apologizing over and over...even though you know you are right.