Meaning of "One" by Three Dog Night

The lyrics of "One" by Three Dog Night delve into the profound feeling of loneliness that can consume a person's life. The repetitive chorus emphasizes the message that "one is the loneliest number," emphasizing the inherent sadness that comes with being alone. The concept of loneliness is further explored through the comparison to being in a toxic or unfulfilling relationship, where "two can be as bad as one." This juxtaposition suggests that even the company of someone who is not right for you can be just as lonely and isolating as being alone.

The absence of a loved one is what triggers the narrator's feelings of loneliness in the song. The lyrics express that life has lost its meaning and purpose since this person went away, as reflected in the line, "It's just no good anymore since you went away." The narrator fills this void by looking back on the past and "making rhymes of yesterday," implying that they have turned to reminiscing about happier times to cope with their loneliness. The repetition of the phrase "one is the loneliest number" throughout the song reinforces the emotional weight of this feeling, emphasizing the longing and emptiness that comes from being alone.

Overall, "One" explores the profound and universal experience of loneliness. It highlights how even the company of someone who is not right for you can be just as isolating as being alone. The song evokes a sense of longing and sadness that arises from the absence of a loved one, depicting the emptiness and longing that can consume an individual's life when they are without companionship.