All by Myself
J. O'Neal Lyrics

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When I was young
I never needed anyone
And makin' love was just for fun
Those days are gone

Livin' alone
I think of all the friends I've known
But when I dial the telephone

Nobody's home

All by myself
Don't want to be, all by myself anymore
All by myself
Don't want to live, all by myself anymore

Hard to be sure
Sometimes I feel so insecure

And love so distant and obscure
Remains the cure

Overall Meaning

J. O'Neal's "All by myself" is a song that reflects on the emotional struggle that comes with feeling alone, especially when that feeling is not a choice but a consequence. The song starts with the artist reminiscing about his youth when love was just for fun, and he didn't need anyone. However, as he grows older, he realizes he needs the company of others, and his friends become invaluable. Unfortunately, as he tries to reach out to them, he finds no response from them, and he suddenly feels abandoned.

The chorus "All by myself, don't want to be all by myself anymore" is a plea for companionship as the artist seems to have had enough of living his life alone. This feeling of being unwanted and isolated is worsened by his insecurities and the distant and obscure nature of love, which he sees as the only cure. The song captures a feeling that is both relatable and touching, and perfectly portrays the need for human connection.

Line by Line Meaning

When I was young
In my youth

I never needed anyone
I did not require companionship

And makin' love was just for fun
Physical intimacy was for pleasure alone

Those days are gone
That time is in the past

Livin' alone
Residing without company

I think of all the friends I've known
I remember the individuals I have associated with

But when I dial the telephone
When I engage with technology to communicate

Nobody's home
No one seems to be available

All by myself
I am without others

Don't want to be, all by myself anymore
I desire companionship

All by myself
I am alone