The lyrics depict a narrator warning someone about a woman who will hurt, lie, and eventually leave them, but the person in love chooses not to believe it. The narrator regrets not speaking up sooner as they hear the woman making empty promises and foreseeing the inevitable heartbreak.

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Meaning of "I Could Have Told You" by Bob Dylan


The song "I Could Have Told You" by Bob Dylan explores themes of regret, love, and betrayal. The narrator's hindsight about warning someone of impending heartbreak reflects a sense of responsibility and empathy. The lyrics suggest that sometimes people are blinded by love and refuse to see the truth, even when warned. The narrator's internal struggle, evident through sleepless nights and tears, highlights the emotional turmoil that comes with witnessing someone you care about make a mistake in love. It showcases the complexities of human relationships, the pain of unreciprocated love, and the bittersweet wisdom that comes with experience. Ultimately, the song serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of listening to advice and being aware of the potential consequences of falling in love with the wrong person.