Meaning of "Heartaches By The Number" by Dwight Yoakam

The lyrics of "Heartaches By The Number" by Dwight Yoakam capture the emotional turmoil and cyclical nature of a tumultuous relationship. Each heartache is meticulously counted and identified, illustrating the singer's attention to the pain caused by the actions of the other person. Despite the constant disappointments and unreciprocated love, the singer's feelings only deepen, creating a sense of longing and despair. The repetition of heartaches by the number and troubles by the score emphasizes the overwhelming nature of the emotional toll the relationship has taken. The final lines poignantly express the idea that as long as the singer keeps counting the heartaches, their world will continue to revolve around this unfulfilling love. The refusal to stop counting implies a sense of helplessness and a fear of facing a reality where the cycle of heartache ends. Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of sadness, longing, and resignation in the face of unrequited love and a relationship that seems destined for heartbreak.