You Give Love a Bad Name
Pietro Canini - Bon Jovi Lyrics

In Bon Jovi's song "You Give Love a Bad Name," the lyrics depict a tumultuous relationship where the singer feels betrayed, hurt, and manipulated by their partner. The imagery of being "shot through the heart" and being blamed sets a tone of intense emotional pain and betrayal. The line "Darlin', you give love a bad name" suggests that the partner's actions have tarnished the concept of love itself.

The lyrics further delve into the deception and false promises made by the partner, described as selling an "angel's smile" and promising heaven only to deliver hell. The metaphor of "chains of love" symbolizes being trapped in a toxic and suffocating relationship where passion becomes a prison from which the singer cannot escape. The partner is likened to a "loaded gun," conveying danger and a sense of inevitability in the destructive dynamic.

The juxtaposition of imagery - the partner's seductive appearance with a dark underbelly - highlights the deceptive nature of their actions. The mention of a school boy's dream and a first kiss turning into a goodbye emphasizes the heartbreaking realization of being misled by someone who seemed innocent and promising. The repeated refrain of "there's nowhere to run" reinforces the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of manipulation and emotional turmoil.

Overall, the song conveys a sense of hurt, betrayal, and disillusionment in love and relationships. The repeated chorus of being shot through the heart and playing one's part in a destructive game underscores the toxic dynamic between the singer and their partner. The lyrics capture the raw emotions of feeling wounded, powerless, and ultimately having love tainted by the actions of someone who gave it a bad name.