You Give Love a Bad Name
BEDROOM - Bon Jovi Lyrics

The lyrics of "You Give Love a Bad Name" by Bon Jovi depict a relationship that has turned toxic and damaging. The opening lines "Shot through the heart, and you're to blame, darlin', you give love a bad name" set the tone for the rest of the song. The singer is expressing feeling hurt and betrayed by someone they once loved. The metaphor of being shot through the heart conveys the intense emotional pain inflicted by this person.

The next stanza delves deeper into the deception and manipulation the person has used in the relationship. They are described as selling an "angel's smile," promising heaven, but ultimately putting the singer through hell. The chains of love represent feeling trapped and unable to escape the toxic cycle of passion turned into a prison. The imagery of a loaded gun and nowhere to run reflects the feeling of being trapped and powerless in the face of this damaging love.

The lyrics also portray the person as someone who puts on a facade of innocence and sweetness, but is actually harmful and destructive. The singer describes the person painting on a smile, donning blood-red nails, and acting shy like a schoolboy's dream. This dichotomy of appearances versus reality is highlighted further with the mention of a first kiss being a goodbye, suggesting a pattern of fleeting affection followed by abandonment.

Overall, the chorus repeats the theme of being hurt and blamed for giving love a bad name. The singer acknowledges playing their part in the game, but ultimately places responsibility on the other person. The repetition of the refrain emphasizes the pain and betrayal felt in this relationship. The lyrics capture the anguish and disillusionment of loving someone who ultimately brings harm and heartache, giving love a tainted reputation in the eyes of the singer.