Meaning of "Monopoly" by Shawn Colvin

The lyrics of "Monopoly" delve into the conflicting feelings of love and resentment towards a former lover. The narrator grapples with the idea of writing a song for this person, feeling both drawn to them and repelled by the idea. They express a sense of weakness in their inability to fully let go of this person, despite the toxicity of the relationship. The lyrics touch on themes of regret, self-awareness, and the difficulty of moving on from a past love. Ultimately, the narrator acknowledges the enduring impact of this person on their life, despite the pain it brings. The repetition of the phrase "I don't know what else to do" highlights the sense of being stuck in a cycle of emotions and the struggle to find closure.