Should I
Dennis Brown
The Heart's Dilemma: Trust and Love in Dennis Brown's 'Should I'
Dennis Brown's song 'Should I' delves into the emotional turmoil of a relationship fraught with uncertainty and mistrust. The lyrics reflect the internal conflict of someone questioning whether to continue investing emotionally in a partner who seems unreliable. The repeated questioning—'Should I have faith in you? Should I put my trust in you?'—highlights the speaker's deep-seated doubts and the pain of potential betrayal. This uncertainty is further emphasized by the contemplation of 'flirting around,' suggesting a search for validation or affection elsewhere due to the instability in the current relationship.
The song also explores the emotional impact of feeling unloved and unappreciated. Lines like 'You don't know what it means to be loved' and 'You don't know how it feels to be hugged' convey a profound sense of neglect and emotional deprivation. The speaker feels as though their partner is incapable of understanding or reciprocating genuine affection, which exacerbates their feelings of sadness and frustration. This emotional disconnect is a central theme, painting a picture of a relationship where one partner feels perpetually unfulfilled and misunderstood.
Despite the pain and confusion, there is a glimmer of hope and a desire for resolution. The speaker expresses a wish for their partner to become 'true and strong,' indicating a longing for mutual understanding and emotional growth. The line 'And then someday you will get to know where you went wrong' suggests that the speaker hopes for a future where their partner realizes their mistakes and the relationship can be mended. This blend of despair and hope captures the complex emotions involved in navigating love and trust in a troubled relationship.