17 Days

Prince's song '17 Days' delves deep into the emotional turmoil of longing and heartbreak. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the pain of separation and unrequited love. The protagonist's repeated attempts to reach out to their lover, who doesn't answer the phone, highlight a sense of abandonment and loneliness. The imagery of sitting in a lonely room with only two cigarettes and a broken heart underscores the depth of their despair.

The recurring motif of rain in the song serves as a metaphor for the protagonist's tears and emotional release. By letting the rain come down, the protagonist seems to be seeking a form of catharsis, hoping that the downpour will wash away their sorrow. The rain also symbolizes the passage of time, with each drop marking another moment of heartache and longing. The repetition of '17 days' and '17 long nights' emphasizes the prolonged nature of the suffering, making the listener feel the weight of each passing day.

Prince's soulful delivery and the haunting melody further amplify the song's emotional impact. The line 'If you're the one who's always lonely, then I'm the one who's always alone' poignantly captures the paradox of feeling isolated even when in a relationship. This song is a testament to Prince's ability to convey complex emotions through simple yet powerful lyrics. It resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of a broken heart and the longing for a lost love.