California drivin’ had to get out
Distance got me wonderin’ where You are right now One-way conversations got me worn down
Pouring out my heart wish You would speak a sound
I don’t know what I’m after I don’t know what I’m doin’ I don’t know what I’m after All I know is I’m lost
Without Your love
There’s no point in even wakin’ up No, no, no, no
Without Your love
Nothin’s ever gonna be enough No, no, no, no, no, no
I can’t get you outta my head
And I don’t wanna ever forget
You give me what the world could never give
I can’t live without Your love
Starin’ at the ceiling after midnight
Over-thinkin’ everything in my whole life
All of these regrets are clouding my mind
Lord I need the strength to try it one more time
Cuz now I know what I’m after Now I know what I’m doin’
Now I know what I’m after Now I know that I’m lost
Some people gotta lose it all
To find out what they really want What I want is You
I can’t live without Your love
Can't Live Without
Can't Live Without Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Hollyn's song "Can't Live Without," released on January 26, 2017, presents a deeply personal narrative of searching, doubt, and ultimately finding fulfillment. The opening lines paint a picture of physical or spiritual distance, with imagery like "California drivin’" and a feeling of separation, leading to the artist "wonderin’ where You are right now." This search is accompanied by a sense of weariness from what feels like one-sided communication, expressing a desire for a responsive presence. The initial state is one of confusion and lack of direction, articulated through the admission "I don’t know what I’m after," culminating in the stark realization of being "lost."
The chorus powerfully declares the central theme: the absolute necessity of this specific "love." Without it, the singer feels a profound emptiness, stating "There’s no point in even wakin’ up" and that nothing else "is ever gonna be enough." This highlights a crucial distinction between this love and anything the world can offer, emphasizing its unique and irreplaceable value. The persistent thought of this connection is welcome, as the singer expresses a desire to "never forget" what is given that transcends worldly provisions. The core declaration, "I can’t live without Your love," serves as an anchor throughout the song, defining the depth of this dependency.
The song transitions into a moment of introspection, depicted by "Starin’ at the ceiling after midnight." This quiet time allows for reflection on life and past choices, where "regrets are clouding my mind." In this vulnerable state, there is an acknowledged need for divine strength to overcome past struggles and "try it one more time." This prayer for renewed effort marks a turning point from the initial confusion towards a clearer understanding.
Following this reflection, a shift occurs. The previous uncertainty transforms into clarity: "Now I know what I’m after." The experience of feeling lost leads to a profound realization. The lyrics suggest that sometimes, hardship or "los[ing] it all" is necessary to discern true priorities. The song arrives at a clear and definitive answer to the initial search: "What I want is You." This spiritual journey, marked by confusion and regret, culminates in the understanding that ultimate purpose and satisfaction are found in this divine relationship, reinforcing the heartfelt confession, "I can’t live without Your love." Themes of seeking God, the inadequacy of worldly pursuits, and finding true value in a spiritual connection are deeply resonant throughout.
