Meaning of "Say Goodbye" by Cheap Trick

The lyrics of "Say Goodbye" delve into the complex emotions of dealing with rejection and loss. The repeated questions of "How does it feel to be better, to be on your own?" convey a sense of confusion and hurt at being left behind. The lines "Everybody wants to laugh when you feel bad" highlight the tendency for people to mask their true emotions, putting on a facade of happiness even when they are struggling inside. This can be seen as a commentary on societal expectations and the pressure to appear strong even in times of vulnerability. The mention of a breakdown and free fall metaphorically describe the feeling of losing control and spiraling into despair. The song captures the rawness of heartbreak and the difficulty of accepting the end of a relationship, ultimately reflecting on the pain of saying goodbye and moving forward.