I Should Have Known Better

The Skatalites' song "I Should Have Known Better" delves into the complexities of love and the bittersweet realization that comes with it. The lyrics reflect a sense of regret and self-awareness, as the narrator acknowledges that they should have anticipated the depth of their feelings for the girl. The repetition of the phrase "I should have known better" underscores a sense of hindsight and the inevitability of falling in love despite any initial reservations.

The song captures the moment of realization when the narrator understands the significance of a kiss and the emotions it can evoke. This moment is portrayed as a personal revelation, emphasizing that such profound experiences are unique and deeply personal. The rhetorical questions "Can't you see? can't you see?" highlight the narrator's desire for the girl to understand the intensity of their feelings and the transformative power of love.

As the song progresses, the narrator expresses a hopeful yet uncertain anticipation of reciprocated love. The repeated lines "You're gonna say you love me too" convey a mix of optimism and vulnerability, as the narrator yearns for mutual affection. The simplicity and repetition of the phrase "You love me too" at the end of the song reinforce the longing for a shared emotional connection, making the song a poignant exploration of love's joys and uncertainties.