The song "Say Something" by James centers around the theme of longing for someone to communicate and reveal their true feelings. The lyrics describe the person being addressed as someone who is guarded and hides their emotions, metaphorically comparing them to a hunter's trap that is tightly closed and concealing its contents. Despite being among friends, they still feel alone due to their inability to open up. The singer questions why this person chooses to hide and wishes for them to break their silence. The chorus emphasizes the singer's desperation for a response, urging the person to say anything or give some indication of their feelings. They express their vulnerability, having already exposed their own emotions, and now seek the same openness in return. The person's silence is described as deafening, as it causes frustration and confusion for the singer. The lyrics also allude to the idea of seeking temporary escapism through drugs, represented by references to a drug-induced state and a forbidden fruit. However, the singer acknowledges that a long-lasting change is needed, including a change of environment and an entirely new life. Ultimately, the singer pleads for the person to break their silence and engage in honest communication. They want to understand and be understood, hoping for a genuine connection and mutual exchange of emotions.
