I Wish We Could Be Alone

Laura Branigan's song "I Wish We Could Be Alone" delves into the complexities and emotional turmoil of a clandestine love affair. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of two individuals deeply in love but bound by societal and marital constraints. The repeated wish to be alone underscores their desire for a private space where their love can flourish without judgment or repercussions. This longing for solitude is a metaphor for their need to escape the prying eyes of the world and the moral dilemmas they face daily.

The song's narrative reveals the internal conflict experienced by the lovers. They are aware of the moral implications of their relationship, as highlighted by the lines, "I got a husband and you got a wife." Despite this, they find solace and strength in their love, believing it to be genuine and powerful. The lyrics, "I know it's not simple, but I know that it's strong," reflect their conviction that their love, though complicated, is real and worth the struggle. This duality of feeling both right and wrong adds depth to the song, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced forbidden love.

Branigan's emotive delivery and the song's poignant lyrics capture the essence of secret love—its beauty, its pain, and its inherent contradictions. The lovers' clandestine meetings and the constant need to hide their relationship from friends and family add a layer of tension and sadness. The song ultimately speaks to the universal human experience of longing for a love that cannot be fully realized, making it a timeless piece that resonates with listeners across different contexts and cultures.