The lyrics of "Once Burned" talk about a sense of betrayal and heartbreak, as the singer reflects on past mistakes and how they have led to pain and disappointment in a relationship. The singer expresses regret over pushing too hard and losing someone they cared about, while acknowledging the difficulty of getting a second chance.

Meaning of "Once Burned" by Todd Rundgren

The lyrics of "Once Burned" delve into themes of regret, second chances, and the consequences of past actions in relationships. The singer reflects on a situation where they feel hurt and betrayed after being burned once before. The emotional pain and disappointment of this experience lead to a cautious approach to relationships, with the singer acknowledging the need to not push too hard in fear of losing someone again. The lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and longing for another chance, highlighting the importance of communication, trust, and understanding in maintaining healthy relationships. The repetition of the phrase "once burned and twice removed" emphasizes the lasting impact of past mistakes and the difficulty of moving forward after experiencing heartbreak. Overall, the lyrics of "Once Burned" serve as a poignant reminder of the fragility of human connections and the importance of learning from past experiences to avoid repeating the same painful mistakes.