The Proud One

The Osmonds' song 'The Proud One' delves into the raw emotions of heartbreak and longing. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the aftermath of a lost love. The opening lines, 'Livin is dyin / Cause love you've left me cryin,' set a somber tone, indicating that the protagonist's life has lost its meaning without their significant other. This sense of despair is further emphasized by the line, 'Now there's no use tryin to go on,' suggesting that the pain of separation is almost unbearable.

The chorus reveals a striking contrast between the protagonist and their former lover. The lines, 'I'm not the proud one, I need you / I'm beggin to you baby, please,' highlight the protagonist's vulnerability and willingness to set aside their pride in a desperate plea for reconciliation. In contrast, the former lover is described as 'the proud one,' indicating a sense of emotional distance or stubbornness that prevents them from returning. This dynamic underscores the theme of unrequited love and the imbalance of emotions in the relationship.

The song also touches on themes of regret and nostalgia. The lines, 'Oh baby, remember / The love we shared so tender,' evoke a sense of longing for the past and a desire to rekindle the lost connection. The protagonist's regret is palpable in the line, 'I didn't know what I had / Don't ya know that I feel so bad,' suggesting a deep sense of remorse for not appreciating the relationship when it was still intact. This emotional depth, combined with the heartfelt plea for forgiveness, makes 'The Proud One' a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the human condition.