Tracks of my Tears
Mary Beth Lyrics

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People say I'm the life of the party
Because I tell a joke or two
Although I might be laughing loud and hearty
Deep inside I'm blue
So take a good look at my face
You'll see my smile looks out of place

If you look closer, it's easy to trace

The tracks of my tears
I need you, need you
Since you left me if you see me with another girl
Seeming like I'm having fun
Although she may be cute

She's just a substitute
Because you're the permanent one
So take a good look at my face
You'll see my smile looks out of place
If you look closer, it's easy to trace
The tracks of my tears

I need you, need you
Outside I'm masquerading
Inside my hope is fading
Just a clown oh yeah
Since you put me down
My smile is my make up

I wear since my break up with you
So take a good look at my face
You'll see my smile looks out of place

If you look closer, it's easy to trace
The tracks of my tears

Overall Meaning

"Tracks of My Tears" is a soulful song that delves into the idea of hiding one's sadness behind a façade of happiness. The song talks about the singer being the life of the party, telling jokes and laughing heartily, but inside, she is really sad. A closer look would reveal that her smile is fake and reflects the tracks of her tears. Though she might be seen with someone else, she needs the person who left her, and she is just pretending that everything is alright. She is a clown, who is hiding her real emotions, and the hope inside her is fading away.

The song's chorus "So take a good look at my face, You'll see my smile looks out of place, If you look closer, it's easy to trace, The tracks of my tears" is the highlight of the song. The lyrics are emotional and inspire empathy for the singer. She is hurting and struggling with her life, yet she is expected to look okay on the surface. The song shines a spotlight on the idea that we should be true to our emotions, rather than pretending to be happy when we're not.

Line by Line Meaning

People say I'm the life of the party
Others perceive me as fun, outgoing and lively

Because I tell a joke or two
I humor others with my jokes

Although I might be laughing loud and hearty
Despite seeming happy and carefree

Deep inside I'm blue
I am truly sad inside

So take a good look at my face
My emotions are reflected on my face

You'll see my smile looks out of place
My smile does not match my inner feelings

If you look closer, it's easy to trace
One can easily see

The tracks of my tears
The evidence of my sadness

I need you, need you
I require your presence and love

Since you left me if you see me with another girl
If you observe me with someone else after you left me

Seeming like I'm having fun
Appearing to enjoy myself