Meaning of "Vacation" by The Go-Go's

The lyrics of "Vacation" by The Go-Go's capture the internal struggle of someone who is unable to move on from a past relationship while they are on vacation. The narrator finds themselves constantly thinking about this person, even when they are away and supposed to be enjoying their time alone. The line "Can't seem to get my mind off of you" depicts the overwhelming hold this person has over the narrator's thoughts.

The narrator reflects on their initial encounter with this person, admitting that they should have recognized the potential for a deeper connection instead of thinking it was just a casual fling. The line "But I thought it was just for fun" reveals their naivety and highlights their regret for not taking the situation more seriously. Now, feeling weak and realizing their mistake, they understand that time would eventually reveal the true nature of their feelings and the consequences of their actions.

The repetition of the phrase "A week without you, thought I'd forget" and "Two weeks without you and I, still haven't gotten over you yet" emphasizes the difficulty of moving on. Despite the passage of time, the narrator is still unable to let go and erase the memories of this person from their mind. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and desperation for freedom from these thoughts, which only intensify during their vacation.

The chorus of the song, with the repeated phrase "Vacation, all I ever wanted, vacation, had to get away, vacation, meant to be spent alone," signifies the narrator's yearning for escape. The vacation is seen as an opportunity to find solace and heal from the emotional turmoil caused by the past relationship. However, the paradoxical nature of the chorus becomes apparent when the lyrics reveal that being alone on vacation is not bringing the desired relief.

Overall, the lyrics of "Vacation" delve into themes of regret, longing, and the inability to escape one's emotions. It captures the inner conflict of an individual who desperately seeks a break from their past, but finds it difficult to let go and move forward.