The song "Ship Of Love" by George Jones tells the story of a relationship that is constantly on a rough and unstable path. The lyrics describe the narrator's feelings of being constantly pushed away and hurt by their partner. The opening lines, "Every time I turn around you turn up and turn me down," suggest that the narrator experiences a constant cycle of rejection and disappointment. They feel as though their partner manipulates their emotions, leading them to feel confused and misled. The line "For you've got me buffaloed into your ways of thinking" implies that the narrator is easily convinced or fooled by their partner's manipulations. They may have adapted to their partner's behavior, even though it is causing them pain. The lyrics illustrate the narrator's desperate hope that their partner will stay and commit to the relationship. They express their longing for love and stability, as seen in the line "But you better drop anchor my ship of love is sinking." This metaphor suggests that their love is gradually deteriorating and in danger of completely falling apart. Throughout the song, the narrator expresses their deep emotions and their belief that they are constantly being let down. They feel like their love is being taken for granted, with their partner leaving them after moments of affection. The repeated lines "Seems like all you want to do is hurt me love me awhile and then desert me" emphasize this pattern of temporary love and eventual abandonment. The lyrics also touch on the lack of attention and respect the narrator receives from their partner. They express their frustration about being ignored and not being heard when they reach out for help. The line "As I cried for help I wasted my breath for you didn't even hear me call" reveals the narrator's feelings of being neglected and unheard. Overall, "Ship Of Love" portrays a relationship filled with pain, manipulation, and a lack of commitment. The narrator is caught in a cycle of hope and disappointment, longing for stability and a genuine connection. Ultimately, the song reflects the anguish and turmoil that can occur in troubled relationships.
