Running Scared

Roy Orbison's song "Running Scared" delves into the emotional turmoil of a man who is deeply in love but is haunted by the fear of losing his partner to a former lover. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who is constantly on edge, worried that his significant other's past flame might reappear and rekindle old feelings. This fear is palpable in lines like "So afraid that he might show" and "If he came back and wanted you?" The repetition of the phrase "running scared" underscores the persistent anxiety and insecurity that plagues the narrator's mind.

The song's narrative builds tension as it progresses, culminating in a dramatic climax where the former lover does indeed show up. The line "Then all at once, he was standing there" captures the sudden and jarring nature of this confrontation. The narrator's heartache is evident as he wonders, "which one would it be?" This moment of suspense is resolved when the partner chooses to stay with the narrator, as indicated by the line "You turn around and walk away with me." This resolution brings a sense of relief and triumph, but it also highlights the fragility of the narrator's emotional state throughout the song.

Orbison's vocal delivery and the song's orchestration further amplify the emotional weight of the lyrics. Known for his operatic voice and dramatic ballads, Orbison masterfully conveys the vulnerability and desperation of the narrator. The song's themes of love, fear, and uncertainty are universal, making it relatable to anyone who has ever experienced the anxiety of potentially losing someone they love. "Running Scared" is a poignant exploration of the complexities of human emotions and the lengths to which we go to protect our hearts.