Meaning of "Harder Now That It's Over" by Ryan Adams

The lyrics of "Harder Now That It's Over" by Ryan Adams depict the aftermath of a relationship that has come to an end. The speaker's emotional turmoil is evident as they express regret over their actions, particularly in regard to a past incident involving police. The metaphorical "cuffs" represent the constraints the relationship placed on both parties, and the sense of freedom that follows is bittersweet. The speaker's guilt and longing for their former partner are palpable, as they lament the loss and wish for a different outcome. Ultimately, the song captures the complexity of emotions that often accompany the end of a significant relationship, highlighting the difficulty of moving on despite the newfound freedom.