Meaning of "101" by Alicia Keys

The song "101" delves into the emotional turmoil of being involved with someone who repeatedly engages in toxic behavior and manipulative actions. The speaker acknowledges that the person they are involved with is adept at causing pain and playing games, yet they still find themselves hoping for a different outcome, hoping to be the exception to the rule. Despite the warning signs and red flags, there is a sense of desperation and longing for love and acceptance. The repetition of "101" throughout the song signifies a cycle of learning the same lesson repeatedly. The speaker is willing to take a chance, even if it means facing the same disappointment they've seen play out countless times before. Ultimately, it's a song about vulnerability, the willingness to risk heartbreak for the possibility of love, and the struggle to break free from a destructive pattern.