The lyrics of "Kept Up" by Empress Of speak about fantasizing and longing for a potential romantic partner whom the narrator has not met yet. Despite not knowing this person, the narrator daydreams about their qualities and envisions a loving and supportive relationship. They imagine being held close and desired by this person, hoping that they will bring out the best in them. The song expresses a desire for a partner who hasn't caused any pain or made the narrator feel upset, different from past experiences. The narrator seeks someone who will not let them down or bring them emotional distress. They long for a connection where they can be kept and cherished, as opposed to being left feeling broken. The repeated phrase "Kept up, dreaming about if you could be better, no one knows yet" suggests that despite the uncertainty and lack of knowledge about this person, the narrator remains hopeful and continues to imagine a better future with them. They yearn for a relationship that exceeds their expectations and remains unknown until it unfolds. Overall, "Kept Up" conveys the longing for a loving and supportive partnership with someone who can offer stability, emotional support, and happiness, while ultimately leaving the final outcome unknown.
