Intentions

Song Meaning

The narrator grapples with a past of emotional damage, where their heart has been "knocked down, thrown around." This history makes them wary, even as they're drawn to someone new. They admit to having "liked the feeling" of past relationships, but now recognize those connections were ultimately "misleading." This sets up a core tension: the desire for genuine connection versus the deep-seated fear of being hurt again. The central conflict emerges in the pre-chorus and chorus, where the narrator directly questions their new interest's sincerity. They acknowledge the other person's stated desire ("You say that you want me through and through"), but their own vulnerability is palpable. The phrase "Once I start to love I just can't press undo" highlights the irreversible nature of their emotional investment, making them hesitant to commit without absolute certainty. The repeated questioning in the chorus, "Will you catch me if I fall?" and "Would you pick up all my calls?" functions as a series of tests. These aren't just abstract queries; they're specific, tangible actions that would prove commitment. The bridge hammers this home, with the narrator needing to "look past the first impression" and demanding clarity on "your intentions." This insistence suggests a need for concrete proof of love, not just words. This lyrical approach is effective because it grounds abstract feelings of doubt in relatable, everyday scenarios. The narrator isn't just vaguely insecure; they're articulating a specific fear of abandonment and a demand for reassurance. The repetition of "What are your intentions?" acts as a plea for transparency, revealing the deep-seated need for security after experiencing past betrayals.