Meaning of "(I've Got To) Stop Thinkin' 'Bout That" by James Taylor

The lyrics of the song "(I've Got To) Stop Thinkin' 'Bout That" by James Taylor delve into the inner turmoil of the singer as he wrestles with memories of a past relationship that he can't seem to let go of. Lucy represents a pivotal figure in his life, with whom he shared significant moments that left a lasting impact on him. The detailed descriptions of their encounters, like meeting in New Orleans and a summer night in a field of wheat, evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing. The repetition of the line "I've got to stop thinkin' 'bout that" reflects the singer's constant battle to move on from the past and come to terms with the way things turned out. The lyrics also touch on themes of regret, loss, and the inability to escape haunting memories, which contribute to the emotional depth of the song. Overall, the song captures the complexity of human emotions tied to past relationships and the struggles of letting go.