Meaning of "Tender Lover" by Babyface

The lyrics of "Tender Lover" convey a message of hope and resilience in the face of heartbreak. The song starts by referencing Eleanor Rigby, a fictional character from The Beatles' song of the same name, who spends her life alone. This sets the tone for the theme of isolation and the desire for love. The lyrics suggest that love is not to blame for Eleanor's situation and that she made a conscious decision to exclude it from her life. However, the narrator challenges this perspective, asserting that love has a right to exist and can bring happiness if one believes in it. The repetition of the phrase "love has no limit" emphasizes the boundless nature of love and its ability to open doors and possibilities.

The chorus of the song addresses a specific individual, referred to as a "tender lover." The narrator expresses remorse and apologizes for unintentionally causing pain. The words "I never meant to hurt you, I never meant to break your heart" reveal a sense of regret, indicating that the narrator recognizes the consequences of their actions. This illustrates the complexity of relationships and the potential for unintentional harm. The phrase "tender love, so broken hearted" further emphasizes the pain caused, highlighting the vulnerability and fragility of love.

The lyrics continue to encourage the listener to not give up on love. They suggest that love is a precious and powerful force that transcends the individual and has the ability to bring people together. The message is one of perseverance and faith in the power of love. It urges the listener to keep searching for love, as there is "more than enough" out there. The line "It'll give you what you want" suggests that love can fulfill desires and bring fulfillment.

Overall, "Tender Lover" is a song that emphasizes the importance of love and encourages the listener to not give up, despite past disappointments. It speaks to the universal desire for connection and the hope that love can bring.