If Only You Knew
Spells and Curses
A Yearning for Connection: The Emotional Depth of 'If Only You Knew'
Spells and Curses' song 'If Only You Knew' delves into the profound longing for emotional and physical connection with a loved one. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person deeply yearning to be close to someone they cherish, expressing a desire to stay alone with them and impress them. The phrase 'Silhouette mistress' suggests an almost ethereal, unattainable quality to the person they are addressing, highlighting the intensity of their feelings and the lengths they would go to be with them.
The chorus, 'Just to have and to hold, How long before I have this much again?' underscores the fleeting nature of these moments of connection. It reflects a deep-seated fear of losing this closeness and the desperation to hold onto it. The repetition of 'I wanna be with my best friend' emphasizes the importance of this person in their life, not just as a romantic partner but as a confidant and companion.
As the song progresses, the imagery of the fading sun and changing colors symbolizes the passage of time and the inevitable changes that come with it. The narrator is mesmerized by the loved one's presence, voice, and the comfort they provide through dark times. However, there's an underlying sense of insecurity and self-doubt, as seen in the lines 'And maybe life will be wrong, And maybe it's all because I'm not strong.' This vulnerability adds depth to the song, making it a poignant exploration of love, longing, and the fear of losing someone dear.
The song's emotional climax comes with the realization that if the loved one's arms 'just don't belong to me,' the narrator will know they were wrong to leave. This admission of regret and the plea for the loved one to hold them 'like I know you can' encapsulates the raw, heartfelt emotion that permeates the entire song.