the one that should've got away

Nessa Barrett's song "the one that should've got away" delves into the tumultuous emotions of regret and self-reflection following a toxic relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young, reckless love affair that, in hindsight, was more harmful than beneficial. Barrett's use of phrases like "bad boy heaven" and "death wish" suggests an attraction to danger and excitement, which ultimately led to emotional turmoil. The repeated line, "God, I loved you," underscores the intensity of her feelings, despite the evident toxicity of the relationship.

The chorus, with its poignant lines, "You're the one that should've got away" and "You're the risk I wish I didn't take," encapsulates the core message of the song. Barrett expresses a deep sense of regret for not recognizing the red flags sooner and for holding on to a relationship that was destined to cause pain. The metaphor of burning it to the ground signifies a desire to erase the past and start anew, free from the shadows of this destructive love.

In the latter part of the song, Barrett's lyrics become even more intense, describing the allure of pain and the irresistible pull of a "bad boy." The line "Got a lust for the devil by a different name" highlights the dangerous allure of her partner, while "I can't say no when he calls me babe" reveals her vulnerability and inability to break free. The final repetition of the chorus drives home the message that this relationship was a grave mistake, one that she wishes she had avoided. Through this song, Barrett captures the universal experience of looking back on a past relationship with the clarity of hindsight, recognizing the mistakes made and the lessons learned.