Since I've Been Loving You

In 'Since I've Been Loving You,' Jimmy Page and Robert Plant delve into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the toll it takes on one's mental state. The song's protagonist is caught in a cycle of relentless work and emotional distress, working from seven in the morning until eleven at night. This grueling schedule is a metaphor for the exhaustive effort he puts into a relationship that seems to be going nowhere. The repetition of 'you're such a drag' underscores the emotional weight and frustration he feels, as he realizes that his efforts are not reciprocated.

The lyrics also highlight the protagonist's internal conflict and the external pressures he faces. Friends and acquaintances try to warn him that his love interest 'didn't mean me no good,' but he persists in trying to make the relationship work. This persistence, despite the clear signs of a one-sided relationship, paints him as 'the best of fools.' The repeated attempts to make things right, despite the emotional toll, reflect a deep sense of love and commitment, albeit one that is ultimately self-destructive.

The imagery of tears falling 'like rain' and the plea to 'stop these tears from falling' further emphasize the depth of his sorrow. The mention of a 'new fangled back door man' suggests betrayal and infidelity, adding another layer of pain to his already troubled mind. The song's climax, where he begs not to lose his 'worried mind,' encapsulates the desperation and emotional exhaustion that come with loving someone who doesn't love you back. The raw emotion in the lyrics, combined with the powerful blues-rock instrumentation, makes 'Since I've Been Loving You' a poignant exploration of love, loss, and emotional resilience.