The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Running Up to That Hill" by the artist "Within Temptation"

Within Temptation's rendition of "Running Up to That Hill" delves into the theme of misunderstanding and pain within a relationship. The lyrical heroine addresses her beloved, asserting that his words and actions cause her pain, despite her attempts to deny it.

The phrase "It doesn't hurt me" sounds more like a defense mechanism, an attempt to convince herself otherwise. She challenges her partner, wanting him to experience the pain he inflicts upon her.

The chorus "And if I only could, I'd make a deal with God, and I'd make him trade our places" is a cry of despair. The heroine wishes for her beloved to understand her feelings, to "walk in her shoes," to comprehend the depth of her pain.

The image of "running up that hill" is a metaphor for overcoming obstacles in the relationship. "Walk through that building" possibly symbolizes the wall of misunderstanding they have built between them.

The line "You don't want to hurt me, but see how deep the bullet lies" speaks to the fact that even unintentional offenses leave deep wounds.

"Thunder in our hearts" is a metaphor for raging emotions, conflicts, and resentments. The heroine questions the reason for the hatred that arises between people who love each other.

The repeated lines "You, it's you and me" and "It's you and me, but we are unhappy" emphasize the deep disconnect within the couple, despite their closeness.

The suggestion "Let's exchange experience" is another manifestation of the heroine's desire to achieve mutual understanding.

The multiple repetitions of verses and choruses at the end of the song heighten the sense of hopelessness and the longing for a time when "running up that hill" will be possible without pain.