Meaning of "Goodbye" by Hootie & The Blowfish

The lyrics of "Goodbye" delve into the theme of the fear of losing love and the desire to maintain a relationship. The song begins with the reflection on how time has changed and how love has slipped away, leaving the narrator feeling distant from their partner who is now involved with someone else. They express their regret for not being able to find the time for their partner and their refusal to accept that nothing lasts forever. The fear of saying goodbye and the pain associated with it are prominent throughout the song.

The lyrics then transition to a scene where the narrator sits alone at a bar, feeling lost and recognizing that their house is no longer a home without their loved one. They convey their longing to be close to their partner, highlighting the importance of their love in their life. The idea of giving up easily without their love showcases the depth of their feelings. The chorus emphasizes the desire to find a remedy for the pain they are experiencing, indicating hope for the future of the relationship.

The next verse reminisces about the beginning of the relationship, expressing how the partner has transformed the narrator's life and allowed them to see a brighter future. The fear of losing this newfound happiness is once again emphasized, with the narrator stating their reluctance to see tears in their partner's eyes when they say goodbye.

The overall meaning of "Goodbye" is a plea to hold on to love and not let it slip away. It portrays the fear of losing someone and the pain associated with parting ways. The lyrics convey a longing for a lasting relationship, a desire to work through the pain, and a search for a solution to keep their love alive.