Lyrics: Love Isn’t Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough)
Do you remember the first time, and all of your sweet sweet talk Ain't heard it a lot since then love Now look at that guy, he's making me cry He leaves everybody and he only says goodbye But if I would have to choose I wouldn't let you go Just give it some more time and you will see our love will grow Darling I know We gotta have patience Love isn't just a sensation Some of the time it gets rough Love isn't easy but it sure is hard enough (Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet) Giving love is a reason for living But a few things can be tough Love isn't easy but it sure is hard enough (Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet) From the first moment I saw you I've treated you like a queen I've given you lots of presents Now listen to that, just look at that cat You'd think he was an angel but he's talking through his hat But if I would have to choose I wouldn't let you go Just give it some more time and you will see our love will grow Darling I know We gotta have patience Love isn't just a sensation Some of the time it gets rough Love isn't easy but it sure is hard enough (Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet) Giving (Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet) Love is a reason for living (Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet) But a few things can be tough Love isn't easy but it sure is hard enough (Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet) Patience (Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet) Love isn't just a sensation (Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet) Some of the time it gets rough Love isn't easy but it sure is hard enough (Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet) Giving (Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet) Love is a reason for living (Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet) But a few things can be tough Love isn't easy but it sure is hard enough [fade]
The Realities of Love: An Analysis
Bittersweet Emotions and Honest Reflections
“Love Isn’t Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough)” by ABBA stands out as a relatable and honest portrayal of romantic relationships. The lyrics reflect on the early days of love, recalling “sweet sweet talk” and affectionate gestures that often fade with time. The narrator observes the changes in their relationship and the challenges that arise, acknowledging both the joys and difficulties of staying together.
Patience and Perseverance in Relationships
One of the central messages of the song is the importance of patience. The repeated lines, “We gotta have patience / Love isn’t just a sensation,” remind listeners that lasting love requires effort, understanding, and resilience. The chorus emphasizes that love, while rewarding, is also demanding—”Love isn’t easy but it sure is hard enough.” This honest admission resonates with anyone who has navigated the ups and downs of a committed partnership.
The Bittersweet Nature of Love
Throughout the song, the phrase “our love is bitter-sweet” is used as a refrain, highlighting the duality of happiness and hardship. The lyrics suggest that giving love is essential to a meaningful life, yet also recognize that “a few things can be tough.” This balance between sweetness and struggle is what makes ABBA’s depiction of love so universally appealing.
Commitment and Hope for Growth
Despite the challenges described, the narrator expresses a strong sense of commitment: “But if I would have to choose I wouldn’t let you go / Just give it some more time and you will see our love will grow.” There is a hopeful outlook that, with patience and effort, love can endure and flourish. The song ultimately delivers a message of perseverance, encouraging couples to weather the hard times and cherish the good.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1973
Label: Polar Music