One Man, One Woman

ABBA's 'One Man, One Woman' delves into the complexities and emotional turbulence of a romantic relationship facing hard times. The song opens with a scene of silence and tension at the breakfast table, symbolizing the communication breakdown between the couple. The protagonist feels a deep sense of helplessness and sorrow as their partner leaves in anger, a recurring event that underscores the strain in their relationship. This emotional turmoil is poignantly captured in the lines, 'No smiles, not a single word at the breakfast table / Though I would have liked to begin.'

The chorus, 'One man, one woman / Two friends and two true lovers,' highlights the dual nature of their bond. Despite the hardships, there is an underlying commitment to support each other through difficult times. The repetition of 'One man, one woman' emphasizes the uniqueness and irreplaceability of their relationship, suggesting that they have one life to live together and one chance to make it work. This sentiment is further reinforced with the line, 'One chance to take that never comes back again,' indicating the preciousness of their shared life.

As the song progresses, the protagonist reflects on the coldness inside their home, contrasting it with the warmth of the sun outside. This metaphor illustrates the emotional distance between the couple. However, a turning point comes when the partner returns home and smiles, prompting a realization that their love is worth fighting for. The lyrics, 'Our love is a precious thing / Worth the pain and the suffering,' convey a message of hope and resilience. The song concludes with a reaffirmation of their commitment to each other, 'You and me, 'till the end,' suggesting that despite the challenges, their love will endure.