"Candy" tells the story of a woman named Candy who is the daughter of absent parents and is searching for love but struggles to find it. She is determined not to follow in her parents' footsteps and believes she deserves better than a love that falls apart.

Meaning of "Candy" by Jackson Browne

"Candy" by Jackson Browne paints a portrait of a woman who is shaped by the absence of her parents in her life and the unhealthy relationships she witnessed growing up. Despite her longing for love, Candy's experiences have made her wary and skeptical. The lyrics suggest that Candy is on a journey to find genuine love that will not end in betrayal or disappointment, while acknowledging the challenges she faces in breaking the cycle of unhealthy relationships. The repetition of "step by step" highlights Candy's deliberate and cautious approach to finding love, suggesting a sense of maturity and self-awareness in her pursuit. Ultimately, the song conveys a message of resilience, self-worth, and the hope for a love that is genuine and lasting.