Should've Known Better

Richard Marx's song 'Should've Known Better' delves into the deep emotional turmoil that follows a painful breakup. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of sleepless nights and an incessant longing for a past love. The opening lines set the tone, with the protagonist unable to escape the memories of their former partner, even as the radio plays songs that keep the person on their mind. This sense of inescapability is a common theme in songs about heartbreak, highlighting how difficult it can be to move on from a significant relationship.

The chorus, 'Should've known better than to fall in love with you,' reflects a sense of regret and self-reproach. The protagonist acknowledges that they should have been more cautious, but love's intoxicating nature led them to ignore potential risks. This regret is compounded by the realization that love has now become a 'faded memory,' and the protagonist is left as a 'prisoner to this pain.' The metaphor of being a prisoner underscores the feeling of being trapped in one's own emotions, unable to break free from the heartache.

As the song progresses, Marx explores the depth of the protagonist's commitment to the relationship. They took risks, made promises, and gave their all, only to be left wondering what went wrong. The lines 'I gave you all of my body and soul / Never believing we might lose control' suggest a complete surrender to the relationship, which ultimately led to their downfall. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the enduring pain of separation. Despite the hope that time might heal their wounds, the protagonist finds that being away from their former lover is driving them 'insane,' emphasizing the lasting impact of lost love.