The song "What If" by Eric Nam delves into the emotions and thoughts of someone who has lost a significant other and is grappling with the consequences of their own pride and actions. The lyrics express regret for letting this person leave their life and the desire to make things right. The protagonist of the song admits that their pride often gets in the way, causing them to bite their tongue and not express their true feelings when their significant other said goodbye. They take responsibility for allowing this person to exit their life and acknowledge the need for time to cool off. However, they don't want to let the relationship slide away without making an effort to fix things. The chorus reflects the protagonist's inner turmoil and contemplation. They wonder if the person they lost is the only one they truly needed, pondering the possibility of stopping them from leaving. They express the inability to let go and move on from the relationship. The second verse touches upon the protagonist's curiosity about their ex's current state of mind and heart. They fear reaching out to them, questioning if they have found someone new or if they still feel the lingering connection between them. Yet, the protagonist's honesty prevails, expressing their strong desire to make things right. The bridge of the song further emphasizes the thoughts racing through the protagonist's mind. They reflect on their regret for not expressing their true feelings when their ex was physically closer, and they long for the opportunity to convey those emotions now. Overall, "What If" is a heartfelt song that explores the internal struggle of losing someone due to personal shortcomings and the desire to make amends despite the fear of rejection or the potential inability to move on.
