Again

John Legend's song 'Again' delves into the tumultuous and cyclical nature of a passionate yet toxic relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of two individuals who are irresistibly drawn to each other despite knowing that their connection is fraught with complications and inevitable heartbreak. The song opens with the acknowledgment of the initial thrill and the forbidden nature of their relationship, likening it to 'sneaking fruit from the forbidden tree.' This metaphor highlights the allure and the inherent danger of their bond, suggesting that the excitement comes from the very fact that it is wrong.

As the song progresses, Legend describes the repetitive nature of their encounters, marked by moments of intense passion followed by inevitable conflict. The lines 'Pleading joy and fading ecstasy' and 'Accusations fly like bullets do' capture the fleeting happiness and the subsequent turmoil that define their relationship. The cyclical pattern is emphasized with the repeated phrase 'here it goes again,' indicating that despite their intentions to end the relationship, they find themselves trapped in the same loop of breaking up and making up.

The emotional complexity of the relationship is further explored in the latter part of the song. Legend sings about the struggle to trust each other and the constant battle between love and hate. The lyrics 'Damn I love you, but this is crazy, I have to fight you almost daily' encapsulate the paradox of their connection—deep love intertwined with constant conflict. The song concludes with a sense of resignation, as Legend admits that leaving is 'oh so hard to do,' and they continue to repeat the same patterns. 'Again' is a poignant exploration of the addictive nature of toxic relationships, where the highs are incredibly high, but the lows are equally devastating.