The lyrics of "Cheap Whiskey" tell the story of a man who has lost the love of his life due to his struggles with alcohol. He reflects on his past, filled with regret for choosing the bottle over her. The scent of cheap whiskey and the sound of her goodbye haunt him until the day he dies.

Meaning of "Cheap Whiskey" by Patty Loveless

"Cheap Whiskey" delves into the destructive power of addiction and the lasting impact it can have on relationships. The man in the song is filled with regret for letting alcohol come between him and the love of his life. The repetition of the warning that you can't have two loves in your life highlights his realization that he chose the wrong path. The cheap whiskey symbolizes his downfall and serves as a reminder of his mistakes. The sound of goodbye echoes in his mind, a constant reminder of his loss. The lyrics serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of substance abuse and the consequences it can have on personal connections.