Distance (feat. Jason Mraz)

Christina Perri's 'Distance,' featuring Jason Mraz, is a poignant ballad that delves into the complexities of a relationship where emotions are deeply felt but not fully expressed. The song captures the essence of loving someone but maintaining a physical and emotional distance to protect oneself from potential heartbreak. The lyrics suggest a scenario where two people are close enough to experience the intensity of their feelings, yet there's a conscious effort to hold back and not fully commit to the word 'love.'

The opening lines paint a picture of intimacy, with the sun filling up the room and one person observing the other's dreams. This closeness, however, is contrasted with the desire to 'keep my distance,' highlighting the internal conflict between the yearning to give in to love and the fear of the consequences. The repeated line 'Say "I love you" when you're not listening' serves as a metaphor for the unspoken truth of their feelings, which is easier to voice when there's no risk of being heard and thus, no risk of vulnerability.

The song's bridge, 'And I keep waiting / For you to take me / You keep waiting / To save what we have,' illustrates the stalemate they're in, with both parties waiting for the other to make a move that could either solidify their relationship or break it. The question 'How long can we keep this up?' echoes throughout the song, underscoring the unsustainable nature of their situation. Ultimately, 'Distance' is a reflection on the emotional safety mechanisms people put in place to guard their hearts, even when it means sacrificing the full experience of love.