"Hard to Say Goodbye" is a song by the American rock band Great White. The song was released in 1991 as a part of their album "Hooked". The lyrics primarily revolve around the theme of separation and the difficulties associated with saying goodbye to a loved one. The song begins by acknowledging the pain and emotions felt when someone you care about cries. The singer empathizes with their pain and acknowledges that even in their tears, the person's smile still remains. Despite being physically distant, the singer assures the person that they are always on their mind. The lyrics then shift to a memory of a child asking when the singer will return. This emphasizes the longing and the impact of their absence on loved ones. It highlights the hardships and challenges faced when saying goodbye to those we care about. As the song progresses, the singer expresses their efforts to do their best and help the other person understand their situation. They admit that they wish they could stay and reassure the person that they will never stop holding onto them. However, they also acknowledge the difficulty of making promises that they may not be able to keep. The song concludes by reiterating the struggles of saying goodbye and the pain associated with it. The repetition of the phrase "hard to say goodbye" reinforces the theme and emotions conveyed throughout the song. Overall, "Hard to Say Goodbye" reflects on the complexities of long-distance relationships, separation, and the emotions experienced when having to bid farewell to someone you care about deeply.
