Meaning of "One Way" by Dierks Bentley

The lyrics of "One Way" paint a picture of a man realizing the consequences of his actions in neglecting his partner. Through the metaphor of music, the singer describes the woman in his life as a beautiful song or a beloved guitar that he failed to cherish properly until she started to drift away. The references to highways, byways, railways, and runways highlight the myriad of choices the woman has to leave the relationship behind. The repeated line "it's gonna be one way this time" signifies the finality and inevitability of the impending separation. The song conveys themes of regret, lost opportunities, and the realization of taking someone for granted only after it's too late. It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of valuing and nurturing relationships before it's too late to salvage them.