Meaning of "Love On The Rocks" by Sara Bareilles

"Love On The Rocks" dives into the complexities of a troubled relationship. The lyrics depict a sense of disillusionment and frustration in the protagonist's voice. The rainy evening in the summertime symbolizes the contrasting emotions of the relationship, where joy and sadness coincide. The protagonist mentions working hard for love with no rewards, highlighting how their efforts have gone unnoticed or unappreciated. The line "You plus me is bad news" reflects their awareness of the toxic dynamic between them. Despite this, they still find their partner physically attractive, but their friend suggests they would be better off without them.

The chorus emphasizes the internal struggle between wanting to stay and knowing it won't be easy. The protagonist acknowledges that the relationship will continue but asserts that it will be their last time hearing the beautiful sound of love coming down, implying that they are finally ready to move on. The phrase "Love on the rocks" serves as a metaphor for the state of their relationship. It's described as both hot as hell and cold as ice, capturing the intense yet volatile nature of their love. The protagonist recognizes the addictive nature of the relationship, comparing it to sipping a drink that dulls their senses and drives their pain, yet they find themselves willing to go through it all again.

Overall, "Love On The Rocks" portrays a complex and conflicted emotional state. It explores themes of unreciprocated efforts, toxic attraction, and the struggle to break free from a harmful relationship. The lyrics create a vivid representation of the narrator's internal battle, showcasing the emotional highs and lows of love gone wrong.