Like I Want You
GIVĒON
The Heartache of Concealed Longing
GIVĒON's "Like I Want You" is a soulful exploration of concealed emotions and unspoken desires in the aftermath of a relationship. The lyrics convey a deep sense of yearning mixed with the protagonist's struggle to maintain a facade of indifference. The song opens with the singer admitting to hiding the truth about his feelings, suggesting a lingering attachment to a past lover. The repeated questioning of whether the other person is experiencing similar thoughts implies a hope for mutual feelings that remain unconfirmed.
The chorus emphasizes the internal conflict by describing the difficulty of acting nonchalant when faced with the person they still have feelings for. The phrase 'I can't make it seem like I want you' highlights the singer's effort to suppress his true emotions in order to avoid making a scene or revealing his vulnerability. This internal battle is a common human experience, where pride or fear of rejection leads one to conceal their true feelings, even when it causes them pain.
The bridge of the song introduces a sense of resignation, acknowledging that there might be no hope for reconciliation ('There's no reason to believe I'll save us now'). Yet, there's a plea for clarity and honesty, a desire for the other person to express their love if it still exists. This emotional plea underscores the complexity of love and the difficulty of moving on when feelings remain unresolved. GIVĒON's smooth vocal delivery and the song's melancholic tone create a poignant atmosphere that resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet nature of love and loss.