Should Have Never Let You Go

Neil Sedaka's song 'Should Have Never Let You Go' is a poignant exploration of regret and longing. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is deeply affected by the presence of a former lover. The opening lines describe the overwhelming beauty and emotional impact of seeing this person again, capturing the sense of being breathless and at a loss for words. This sets the stage for the central theme of the song: the deep regret of letting someone go who was profoundly important to the narrator's life.

The song delves into the complexities of human relationships, acknowledging that both parties have made mistakes. However, the narrator emphasizes that the pain of living without the other person is unbearable. This sentiment is encapsulated in the lines, 'But a life without your love, Is a life too hard to bear.' The song's emotional core is the realization that love transcends the need to assign blame or determine who was right or wrong. Instead, it focuses on the enduring love and the sorrow of separation.

The recurring refrain, 'I should have never let you go,' underscores the narrator's deep regret and the sense of loss that permeates the song. The lyrics also touch on the unexpected nature of encountering the former lover again, which reignites old feelings and brings the narrator's emotions to the surface. The imagery of walls tumbling down symbolizes the breaking down of emotional barriers and the vulnerability that comes with confronting past mistakes. Ultimately, the song is a heartfelt expression of the pain of lost love and the enduring hope for reconciliation.