Never meant to cause you any sorrow
Never meant to cause you any pain
I only wanted to one time to see you laughing
I only wanted to see you in the purple rain

Purple rain
Purple rain

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Prince & The Revolution's song "Purple Rain" start with an apologetic tone from the singer, indicating that he never intended to harm or hurt anyone to whom he's singing the song, followed by the desire to see his loved one/someone he cares about laughing at least once. The song's catchy chorus then follows, where Prince repeats the words "purple rain" several times. Here, purple rain seems to be a metaphor for the sadness and grief that he and his loved one are experiencing. He then expresses his regret for never wanting to be a mere weekend lover, but instead, he always sought to be a good friend. The song also suggests that though he could never win her from her current love interest, he still wants to see her under the purple rain, indicating that he wants her to feel the emotions he's going through.

The song's final verses mention the challenges and changes that come with the times and how everyone has to look beyond and reach out for something new. Here, Prince seems to suggest that everyone needs to have the courage to try new things and take risks in life. He also offers to take his loved one's hand and guide her to the purple rain, indicating that he wants to help her overcome her sadness and grief.

Line by Line Meaning

I never meant to cause you any sorrow
I never intended to harm or upset you

I never meant to cause you any pain
I never intended to hurt you physically or emotionally

I only wanted to one time to see you laughing
I wanted to witness your happiness and joy at least once

I only wanted to see you Laughing in the purple rain
I wanted to see you in a state of happiness and bliss, surrounded by beauty (represented by the purple rain)

Purple rain, purple rain
Referencing a beautiful natural occurrence (rain), with the color purple representing royalty, luxury and sensuality

I only wanted to see you Bathing in the purple rain
I wanted to see you fully immersed and enjoying the beautiful experience of the purple rain

I never wanted to be your weekend lover
I didn't want to have a casual, fleeting relationship with you

I only wanted to be some kind of friend (hey)
I hoped to have a meaningful, platonic relationship with you

Baby, I could never steal you from another
I wasn't interested in breaking up your current relationship or causing you any harm

It's such a shame our friendship had to end
I regret that our relationship had to come to an end, and I am disappointed that we couldn't have remained friends

Honey, I know, I know I know times are changing
I am aware that things are constantly shifting and transforming

It's time we all reach out For something new, that means you too
We should all pursue new experiences, including you

You say you want a leader But you can't seem to make up your mind
You express wanting someone to guide you, but you are undecided

I think you better close it And let me guide you to the purple rain
I suggest that you stop being indecisive and let me lead you to the beautiful, luxurious experience of the purple rain

If you know what I'm singing about up here C'mon, raise your hand
If you understand the deeper meaning behind my words, show me by raising your hand

I only want to see you Only want to see you In the purple rain
I desire to be with you and experience life's beauty together, specifically represented by the purple rain