The song "Never Give It Up" by John Newman addresses the struggles and frustrations in a relationship where the love and intimacy are lacking. The lyrics express the desire to love the other person, but the feeling is not reciprocated. The story of the song revolves around the narrator wanting to love their partner but feeling that something is missing. They express the need for physical and emotional intimacy, but despite their efforts, the partner never gives it back. The protagonist mentions their partner waiting for them and sitting together on the sofa watching television, but even in those moments, they feel disconnected. The lover in the "paper" symbolizes the image the partner portrays to the outside world versus their true self in the relationship, creating an even greater disconnect. The narrator is constantly being called by their partner and is expected to provide hope, but they admit to always being busy and unable to engage in conversations. Although the partner keeps saying things will change, the protagonist doesn't believe it anymore and feels that the promises will never be fulfilled. Despite yearning for love and intimacy, the narrator acknowledges that something doesn't feel right in the relationship. They want to express their love and physical desires, but the circumstances prevent them from staying the night or experiencing a fulfilling relationship. Overall, "Never Give It Up" explores the struggle of being in a relationship where one person feels unfulfilled and unsatisfied, facing the realization that their partner may never give them the love and intimacy they crave.
