Trouble Is
Backstreet Boys
The Lingering Ache of Lost Love
The song 'Trouble Is' by the Backstreet Boys delves into the emotional turmoil that follows a breakup. The lyrics poignantly capture the realization of love's value only after it's lost. The opening lines, 'How come you never know what you got until it's gone?' set the tone for a narrative of regret and longing. The protagonist reflects on how he never felt as good with anyone else, highlighting the depth of his connection with his lost love. This sense of loss is compounded by the realization that he was naive to think he would be alright without her.
The chorus emphasizes the struggle of moving on, with the repeated line, 'The trouble is I can't get her out of my mind.' This repetition underscores the persistent nature of his thoughts about her, even as he tries to convince himself that 'tomorrow will be better.' The song captures the universal experience of trying to forget someone who was once a significant part of your life, only to find that their memory lingers. The line 'Love is what the trouble is' encapsulates the paradox of love being both a source of joy and pain.
In the second verse, the protagonist recalls his ex-partner's complaint that he never wore his heart on his sleeve, which adds another layer of regret. He acknowledges his mistake and the irony of now being the one who is sorry. The song's bridge and final chorus reiterate the difficulty of letting go, with the protagonist admitting that 'love has let me lonely.' The Backstreet Boys use this song to explore the complexities of love and loss, making it a relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced the heartache of a breakup.