Meaning of "Every Little Bit Hurts" by Alicia Keys

The lyrics of "Every Little Bit Hurts" paint a picture of a one-sided, toxic relationship where the singer is constantly hurt by their partner's actions. The repetition of "Every little bit hurts" emphasizes the cumulative effect of the continuous emotional pain inflicted by the partner's neglect and cold treatment. The singer's desperation and yearning for the partner to come back despite the hurt they are causing portray a sense of powerlessness and self-sacrifice in the face of unreciprocated love. The line "To you I'm a toy and you're the boy, who has to say when I should play" highlights the unequal power dynamics in the relationship, with the singer feeling like they are at the mercy of their partner's whims. Despite the singer's plea for the partner to return and promises of giving them everything they want, there is an underlying sense of resignation and sadness in realizing that every little hurt, no matter how seemingly insignificant, takes its toll on them.