Meaning of "Why Baby Why" by Patty Loveless

"Why Baby Why" by Patty Loveless delves into the emotional turmoil of a tumultuous relationship. The lyrics depict a partner who continuously causes pain and frustration, yet the speaker can't help but express their love for them. The repeated questioning of "why" highlights the speaker's confusion and longing for answers. Despite the hurt caused by the partner's actions, the speaker still harbors feelings of love and attachment. The reference to honky tonkin' and feeling for the doorknob suggests a cycle of reckless behavior and forgiveness that characterizes the relationship. Overall, the lyrics capture the complexities of love, pain, and the struggle to understand why certain relationships bring so much heartache.