Meaning and Lyrics of The Things We Say by Nieve Ella

“The Things We Say” by Nieve Ella is a poignant and introspective song that delves into themes of regret, miscommunication, and the complexity of relationships. The lyrics capture the emotional turmoil of a situation where words spoken in the heat of the moment have caused irreparable damage.

In the first verse, the singer reflects on the uncertainty and growth that can lead to changes in a relationship. The lines “If all of this was the same / And I hadn’t grown / Into someone that you would change?” touch upon personal development and the impact it can have on connections with others.

The pre-chorus sets the scene of a heated confrontation, with vivid imagery of standing in a driveway, surrounded by onlookers. The admission of calling the other person a liar as a means to end the conflict speaks to the desperation and frustration that can arise in conflicts.

The chorus serves as a lamentation of the consequences of rash words and actions. The repetition of “Jesus Christ, what a mess / We keep making” conveys a sense of helplessness and remorse. The line “I would never hurt a friend that way” reveals the underlying guilt and desire for understanding and forgiveness.

The second verse continues to explore the dynamics of the relationship, with the singer expressing a wish for the other person to slow down but feeling paralyzed in their ability to communicate effectively. The broken glass symbolizes the fragility and damage caused by the lack of clear communication.

The repeated chorus drives home the central message of the song, emphasizing the weight of hurtful words and actions that can strain friendships. The inability to take back hurtful words, symbolized by throwing a suitcase in the back, underscores the permanence of the damage caused by thoughtless communication.

The outro brings the song full circle, reiterating the regret and pain of the aftermath of hurtful communication. The repeated phrase “Jesus Christ, the things we say / I would never hurt a friend that way” serves as a stark reminder of the impact of words on relationships and the longing for reconciliation.

Overall, “The Things We Say” by Nieve Ella is a powerful and emotive exploration of the repercussions of miscommunication and the complexities of human relationships, urging reflection and empathy in our interactions with others.