Meaning of What If I Told You A Story by Shawn Mendes

The song "What If I Told You A Story" by Shawn Mendes explores themes of regret, lost love, and the power of vulnerability. Through introspective and emotive lyrics, Mendes takes listeners on a journey of reflection, contemplating the consequences of his actions and the possibility of rewriting history.One standout lyric in the song is, "I know that I have made mistakes like when I introduced you as a friend." This lyric highlights the theme of missed opportunities and the pain of not acting on one's true feelings. It suggests that the protagonist might have been too afraid to reveal his true emotions, resulting in the loss of a potentially beautiful relationship. This theme taps into the universal fear of rejection and the longing for second chances.Another powerful lyric is, "And all along the joke's on me, now you're happier with someone new." This lyric delves into the theme of accepting the consequences of one's actions. It reflects on the realization that the person they once held close has moved on and found happiness with another. It evokes a sense of longing and regret, as the protagonist sees the person they love moving forward while they remain stuck in the past.The chorus further reinforces the overarching theme of regret and the desire for redemption. Lyrics such as "What if I told you he's sorry he made you wait" and "What if I told you that someone was me" speak to the need for forgiveness and the hope of reconciliation. They bring forth the idea that the protagonist is willing to acknowledge their mistakes and take responsibility for their actions, suggesting that they have grown and changed over time.In the bridge, the lyrics "When you ask me who I'm seeing now, I wanna say it's you I'm thinking about" convey the theme of longing and unspoken desires. It captures the internal conflict between wanting to express one's true feelings and fearing the potential repercussions. This theme highlights the power of unspoken words and the potential for missed connections due to the inability to communicate effectively.Finally, the last verse of the song introduces a ray of hope, emphasizing the theme of transformation and second chances. The lyrics "I'm ready to tell you a story, I am somebody who loves you, I wanna tell you I'm sorry" demonstrate the protagonist's growth and the realization that they want to be the one to make things right. It suggests a willingness to change and finally open up about their feelings, implying a possibility of a future where they can make amends and potentially rekindle a lost love.The overall theme of "What If I Told You A Story" revolves around the exploration of regret, missed opportunities, and the power of vulnerability. It invites listeners to reflect on their own actions and the significance of sharing their true feelings. Through poignant lyrics, Shawn Mendes connects with his audience, evoking a range of emotions while offering the hope of redemption and the possibility of rewriting one's story.