Meaning of "You Should Have Killed Me When You Had the Chance" by A Day To Remember

The lyrics of "You Should Have Killed Me When You Had the Chance" delve into themes of betrayal, longing for connection, and vengeance. The protagonist is disheartened by the town they live in, as they feel constantly judged and talked about behind their back. They long for their so-called friends to look them in the eyes one last time, but they are unable to face the truth. The writing on the wall represents the inevitability of their departure from this toxic environment and the recognition that others have read about it. Despite their desire to leave, the protagonist expresses their willingness to come running if called, sacrificing one more night to be with them. This demonstrates their conflicting emotions - they want to escape, yet they still yearn for a sense of belonging and acceptance.

The lyrics delve into the idea of rewriting stories and taking control of their own narrative. The protagonist is fed up with others meddling in their anger and attempting to manipulate their perception of their significant other. They adamantly defend their partner, describing her as someone who means everything to them. The question of whether a "whore's lies" are worth dying for challenges societal judgments and the idea of valuing honesty and authenticity. The protagonist asserts that they will take their time in dealing with the situation, suggesting a brewing anger and desire for justice.

The lyrics take a dark turn in the later verses, where the protagonist contemplates violent revenge. They vividly describe entering their friend's house and bringing a gun from their end table. The blood on the walls and the eventual discovery on the bathroom floor indicate the ruthless act they commit. The repetition of the phrase "You should have killed me when you had the chance" can be interpreted as the protagonist's taunt, suggesting that their friend's betrayal has propelled them to this course of action. It also highlights the desire for power and control, as they question whether they should "write it off" or proceed with their revenge.

Overall, the lyrics explore themes of betrayal, longing for acceptance, and the potential consequences of seeking vengeance. They convey a sense of frustration and disappointment with the protagonist's surroundings while delving into the complexities of human relationships.