Meaning of "The Love That Got Away" by Sara Watkins

"The Love That Got Away" by Sara Watkins delves into introspection and contemplation about the paths not taken and the love lost in life. The lyrics touch on the idea of regret and reflection that often accompanies aging, where one starts thinking about what could have been different if different choices had been made. The narrator seems to be stuck in a cycle of longing and envious of others' experiences, imagining the simplicity and complexity of their lives while grappling with the notion that a past love was not fully realized. The repeated mention of keeping an eye on two or three people signifies a sense of curiosity and potential missed connections that could have altered the course of life. Overall, the song conveys a sense of bittersweet nostalgia and a recognition of the fleeting nature of love and life choices, culminating in an acceptance that some loves just slip away.