Meaning of "I Can't Win" by Ry Cooder

The lyrics of "I Can't Win" reflect the feelings of powerlessness and futility that can accompany unrequited love and the desire to win someone's affection. The narrator describes their relentless efforts to earn the love of the person they desire, but no matter how hard they try or how much they give, they feel like they are constantly falling short. The repetition of "I can't win" in the lyrics emphasizes the sense of defeat and resignation that the narrator feels. Despite their attendance at church, punctuality at work, and professed commitment, they still cannot achieve the desired outcome of winning the love of the person they desire. The lyrics convey a sense of desperation and disillusionment, as the narrator grapples with the realization that their efforts might never be enough to earn the love they seek.