The lyrics describe a repeated pattern where the singer plans to leave and start anew, but can't break away from a toxic relationship, no matter how much they are mistreated. Despite vowing to move on, they find themselves unable to say goodbye, feeling trapped by the hold their partner has over them.

Meaning of "Breakaway" by Irma Thomas

The song "Breakaway" by Irma Thomas delves into the complex emotions of being unable to break free from a toxic relationship. The lyrics depict a recurring cycle where the singer makes promises to leave and move on, yet finds themselves unable to follow through. Despite being mistreated and hurt, there is a deep emotional attachment that keeps them in this destructive cycle. The feeling of being trapped by a love that has turned toxic is evident throughout the song, with the repeated refrain emphasizing the inability to break away. The internal struggle between wanting to break free and being emotionally bound to the other person is a poignant exploration of the complexities of relationships that turn sour. The singer's inability to say goodbye reflects a deep-rooted emotional connection that is hard to sever, even in the face of mistreatment.