Oh-a-w-oh
When I was just a little child
(Little child)
Happiness was there awhile
(There awhile)
And from me, it
It slipped one day (ay)
Happiness
Come back I say
‘Cause if you don’t come
I’ve got to go looking
For happiness
Well if you don’t come
I’ve got to go looking
God, for happiness… happiness
Say that
Say I’m hurting
(Inside) and it’s no
I’m hurting
I’m hurting
Deep inside
Oh good God now
Oh hear my cry
Hear my cry
Yeah my my my my my my my cry
Been together like school children
(School children)
Then you hurt me just in vain
(Just in vain)
Oh
Lord, I’m your little child
(Little child)
Oh
Happiness come back awhile
‘Cause if you don’t come
I’m going a looking
For happiness
The road is dangerous
‘Cause if you don’t come
I’ve got to go looking
For happiness…happiness
Said I’m
Don’t you know I’m
I’m hurting, hurting inside
Oh I’m hurting
Who cares
Who cares
Does the one who love
Oh
Feel the pain
Feel the pain
Does the one who love
Feel the pain
Feel the pain
(Been together)
Been together like school children
Longing and Loss: Exploring the Heart of the Song
“I’m Hurting Inside” by Bob Marley is a poignant reflection on the pain of lost happiness and childhood innocence. The lyrics capture the journey from simple joys to the ache of emotional wounds, as the narrator pleads for happiness to return. The repetition of being “hurt inside” underlines the depth of his vulnerability, asking whether those who love truly feel the pain they cause. Marley’s use of childhood imagery—”Been together like school children”—amplifies the sense of betrayed trust and lost simplicity. Ultimately, the song is a heartfelt cry for understanding and healing, resonating with anyone who has experienced emotional hardship.
Song Credits
- Artist: Bob Marley
- Songwriter: Bob Marley