Once I Loved
Stan Getz & Antonio Carlos Jobim Lyrics

The lyrics of Stan Getz & Antonio Carlos Jobim's song Once I Loved are essentially about a person who is reflects on their past relationship with a former lover. They express their deep love for the person and how much they had invested in the relationship. The lines "Once, once I loved and I gave so much love" and "To this love, you were the world to me" suggests the depth of their love. However, the relationship ended because of the singer's foolish pride which led them to let the person go. This is depicted by the line "I was foolish and proud and let you say goodbye."

Despite the end of the relationship, the singer remains in a state of sadness. The line "One day from my infinite sadness" shows the extent of their despair. However, the former lover returns and helps the singer find love again. This is symbolised by the line "You came and brought me love again." The singer then acknowledges that they will never let go of this person again. The lines "Now I know that no matter what/Ever befalls I'll never let you go" emphasises the depth of the singer's love.

The last stanza is a reflection on the bittersweet nature of love. The line "Love is the saddest thing when it goes away" highlights how painful it is to lose someone you love. The singer then makes a commitment to hold on to this newfound love and make it last forever. The line "I will hold you close, make you stay" conveys a sense of determination and commitment to keeping the relationship alive.

Overall, the song is a powerful representation of the complexities of love and the heartbreak that comes with it. It speaks to the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds and to carry us through tough times.