I Should Have Known Better

Jim Diamond's song "I Should Have Known Better" is a poignant ballad that delves into the themes of regret, love, and the pain of loss. The lyrics express the narrator's remorse over taking a loved one for granted and the subsequent realization of the mistake after it's too late. The repeated line, 'I should have known better,' underscores the self-reproach and the wisdom that often comes only after the fact. The narrator acknowledges that they should have known better than to risk the relationship with someone so 'beautiful,' which can be interpreted as a reference to both physical beauty and the beauty of the love they shared.

The song's narrative is one of reflection and sorrow. The narrator sees their former lover walking by, indicating that the relationship has ended, and they are now on the outside looking in. The line 'I've never loved no one as much as you' emphasizes the depth of the narrator's feelings and the magnitude of their regret. The mention of 'fooling around' suggests possible infidelity or a lack of seriousness that led to the relationship's demise. The plea for forgiveness and the question 'can you forgive me?' reveal the narrator's desire for reconciliation and the hope that there might be a chance to mend the broken bond.

Musically, the song's melancholic melody and Diamond's emotive vocal delivery enhance the sense of heartache and yearning. The repetition of 'I, I, I' followed by 'should have known better' and 'love you' serves to emphasize the personal responsibility the narrator feels for the situation, as well as their enduring love despite the separation. The song resonates with anyone who has experienced the regret of losing someone important due to their own actions or inactions.