Meaning of "When The Circus Comes" by Los Lobos

The lyrics of "When The Circus Comes" convey a sense of regret and bitterness over a failed relationship. The repeated refrain of "could have had a chance" emphasizes missed opportunities and the singer's longing for a different outcome. The imagery of burning everything down when the circus comes to town symbolizes a desire to erase all memories and start fresh. The mention of carving names on a tree and scratching them out reflects the emotional turmoil of seeing a former lover move on. Overall, the lyrics capture the raw emotions of heartbreak, loss, and the struggle to move on from a painful past.