"Smarter Than I was" is a song by blues guitarist and singer Buddy Guy. The lyrics talk about a person who went through a difficult period in their life, marked by loneliness, heartbreak, and feeling inadequate in a relationship. The opening lines set the scene with the protagonist being alone, accompanied by the howling wind and a burning fire that fails to provide warmth. There have been nine consecutive cold nights, symbolizing the duration of their emotional struggle. The person they once loved has taken them to a darker side of life, but the realization hits them halfway through this journey. They have gained wisdom from their experiences and have decided it's time to say goodbye. The reference to dogs barking in the midnight rain and thunder and lightning evoke a sense of chaos and pain. Despite the nine cold nights, the person decides that tonight is the night their situation will change. They are determined to let go of the memories that haunt them and cleanse themselves of the pain they have been carrying. In the end, the protagonist acknowledges that they may not appear different on the surface, but they have grown and become smarter than they were. This could mean realizing their self-worth, understanding their own mistakes or learning from their past experiences. The song expresses a message of personal growth and inner strength, even in the face of adversity. Overall, "Smarter Than I Was" tells a story of self-reflection, resilience, and the ability to move forward despite challenging circumstances.
