Looking Back
John Holt Lyrics


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Looking back over my life
I can see where I've caused you strife
But I know, oh yes I know, I'd never make that same mistake again
Looking back over my deeds
I can see signs of wise men
And if I just had a chance, I'd never make that same mistake again
Once my cup was overflowing, but I gave nothing in return
Now I can't begin to tell you what a lesson I have learnt
Looking back over the slate
I can see love turn to hate
But I know, oh yes I know, I'll never make that same mistake again

Once my cup was overflowing, I gave nothing in return
Now I can't begin to tell you what a lesson I have learnt
Looking back over the slate
I can see love turn to hate




But I know, oh yes I know, I'll never make that same mistake again
I know, I know

Overall Meaning

Looking Back by John Holt is a song that reflects on the mistakes made by the singer in his past relationships, particularly with regard to his lack of reciprocity towards his partner. The opening lines of the song reveal that the singer is aware of the pain he may have caused his partner in the past. However, he acknowledges that he has learned from these mistakes and is willing to move on and do better. The lines "But I know, oh yes I know, I'd never make that same mistake again" and "But I know, oh yes I know, I'll never make that same mistake again" express this sense of regret and determination to improve.


As the song progresses, the singer refers to his own personal growth and wisdom. He describes himself as a "wise man" and notes that he can see "signs" of this in his past behavior. This implies that he has gained wisdom from his experiences and is using this knowledge to improve himself. The chorus then reiterates the singer's resolve to never repeat his past mistakes, ending on the hopeful note "I know, I know."


The final verse of the song touches on the theme of love turning to hate. The singer acknowledges that his past relationships may have soured due to his actions, but expresses a desire to move past this and do better in the future. Ultimately, Looking Back is a song about growth, learning from mistakes, and striving for better relationships.


Overall, John Holt's Looking Back is a reflective and introspective song that explores the themes of regret, personal growth, and relationship improvement. Through his lyrics, Holt encourages his listeners to learn from their mistakes and use their experiences to become better partners in the future.


Line by Line Meaning

Looking back over my life
Reflecting on my past experiences


I can see where I've caused you strife
I caused pain and trouble for someone close to me


But I know, oh yes I know, I'd never make that same mistake again
I've learned from my mistake and won't repeat it


Looking back over my deeds
Reflecting on my past actions


I can see signs of wise men
I can recognize moments where I made wise choices


And if I just had a chance, I'd never make that same mistake again
Given the opportunity, I wouldn't repeat my past mistakes


Once my cup was overflowing, but I gave nothing in return
I received abundance but didn't give anything back in return


Now I can't begin to tell you what a lesson I have learnt
I've learned a valuable lesson from my past behavior


Looking back over the slate
Reflecting on my past experiences


I can see love turn to hate
I saw love transform into hate


But I know, oh yes I know, I'll never make that same mistake again
I won't repeat the mistake that led to the transformation of love into hate


I know, I know
I'm fully aware




Writer(s): B. HENDRICKS, B. BENTON, C. OTIS

Contributed by Isabelle B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Comments from YouTube:

jacquelinem1960

Who is still listening to the Master of Reggae. To the late great John Holt R.I.P . Sorely missed also by my mum who died 27.12.17. R.I.P mum. He was her ultimate favourite. We used to play his songs all the time.

Ricardo Guedes

Muita pedra !!

jahtempo

This is a great song . This song gets me through the rough times

Tawananyasha Mutekwe

A delicate interpretation of a Nat King Cole classic. Only an architect of song could dare temper with Nat Cole's flawless version.

Olive Reid

He is gone but his voice and his music will still goes on never will be forgotten

Paul Everitt

He has been my favourite singer since the age of 13 years old .my friends thought it was a little bit funny because I was white and English and they was all listening to acid house music. To me the greatest singer of time . John now has gone to a better place just like your mother 👍

Tony Ogbata

Pure niceness...

jennifer bowes

Always delivered❀

Lunnoux Hinds

The Luther Vandross of reagae
Love him.
I wish he was still with us.

Denis Bromfield

Great, great, great; now that's what I am talking about.
Listen to the keyboards, listen to the top hats.
R.I.P

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