Meaning of "I Must Go" by Lindsey Buckingham

The lyrics of "I Must Go" touch upon themes of addiction, frustration, and powerlessness. The repeated plea for the girl to "leave the little drug alone" reveals a sense of concern and desperation on the part of the narrator, who ultimately realizes that they cannot force someone to change their ways, no matter how much they care about them. The decision to leave at the end of the song signifies a recognition that sometimes the only way to protect oneself from the destructive behavior of others is to remove oneself from the situation. The mention of heartache and contemplation suggests that this choice is a difficult one, but necessary for self-preservation. Overall, the lyrics convey a message of setting boundaries and prioritizing one's own well-being when faced with the harmful actions of others.