The song "Hanging On (Edit)" by Ellie Goulding portrays a sense of longing and frustration in a relationship. The lyrics suggest that the narrator feels trapped and emotionally hurt by the actions of their partner. Despite the pain they feel, they continue to hold on to the hope that things will improve. The opening lines convey a desire to escape the difficulties in the relationship, with the narrator calling out their partner's name as a plea for attention and connection. The recurring feeling of pain and the partner's indifference or avoidance contribute to the narrator's frustration. The chorus expresses the narrator's struggle to let go of the relationship, as they are uncertain about what is causing the problems between them. They feel a deep connection to their partner but are unable to understand why things aren't working out. The verse talking about touching and turning away signifies the conflicting emotions experienced in the relationship. The partner's actions may bring temporary comfort, but the pain remains and the narrator questions whether their partner feels the same way. The closing lines reflect the narrator's desire to break free from the relationship, as they don't want to be tied down like a "ball and chain." This reveals a sense of longing for liberation from the emotional burden and strain of the relationship. Overall, "Hanging On (Edit)" represents the emotional struggle of holding on to a relationship that is not giving the expected fulfillment. It portrays the pain, confusion, and desire for freedom that can arise from an unhealthy or mismatched connection.