Meaning of "Hard To Love" by Calvin Harris

In "Hard To Love," Calvin Harris delves into the complexities of his personality and relationships. The lyrics highlight his conflicting traits and insecurities. He admits to not being expressive verbally, preferring singing instead. Despite not smoking, he enjoys drinking. The singer also reveals his paranoia, stating that he doesn't miss a thing. However, he still believes himself to be a nice person. This paradoxical nature is further explored in the chorus, where the singer proclaims that he would rather be hard to love than easy to leave.

The song also touches on the singer's fear of commitment and his need for freedom. He describes falling in love as a "freak," but then withdrawing and asserting his need for independence. This struggle is encapsulated in the repeated plea for freedom throughout the song. Despite acknowledging his role as a heartbreaker, he cannot shake off the title or fake his emotions. The chorus reinforces the theme of valuing love that requires effort, implying that he wants to be seen as worth the challenge.

Calvin Harris suggests that he is misunderstood and carries emotional baggage. He admits that others may love him without truly knowing him, possibly referring to superficial attractions. He declares himself broken with ego issues and a swollen head, possibly indicating low self-esteem or a defensive mechanism. The line "I got a million chips on my shoulder" conveys the weight of past experiences and emotional burden that he carries, further contributing to his complexity.

The bridge of the song introduces a yearning for deeper connections. The singer expresses the desire for his partner's roots to go deep, symbolizing a commitment that cannot be easily severed. He craves a love that is genuine and not superficial, emphasizing the importance of acceptance. The repeated phrase "Go deeper" signifies a longing for more profound emotional connections and authenticity in relationships.

Ultimately, "Hard To Love" explores the singer's insecurities, contradictory nature, fear of commitment, and longing for genuine love. The lyrics paint a picture of a complex individual seeking validation and acceptance while grappling with his own internal struggles.