"It Could Have Been Better" is a song by Joan Armatrading, an English singer-songwriter. The lyrics depict a story of longing, disappointment, and missed opportunities in a relationship. The song starts with the narrator expressing their sadness before the arrival of the person they are addressing. Despite their sadness, they feel glad to see this person, although their smile is overshadowed by their ongoing sadness. The narrator was waiting for a metaphorical cloud to pass over, hoping that it would enable them to display their love more openly. The second verse reveals that if the person had stayed, they could have made the narrator laugh. Unfortunately, the person leaves, which leaves the narrator even more confused and frightened than they were before their arrival. They witness a combination of insanity and tears, and desperately shout for the person to stay. The narrator then reflects on how the situation could have been better if the person had shown support and affection. They mention holding their hand, smiling at them, or questioning why their face was distorted, which implies a plea for understanding and emotional connection. The song takes a turn in the last verse, as the narrator reveals that they are now back in the sunlight and feeling glad again. They express their desire to bring only joy to the other person. However, they acknowledge their occasional moments of feeling lost and desperate, asking for forgiveness if they sometimes fail to exhibit reasoning or consideration during their darker times. They seek the other person's help to understand and explain the meaning behind their emotions. Overall, "It Could Have Been Better" portrays the internal struggle of the narrator in a relationship. They reflect on missed opportunities for happiness and express a longing for understanding, support, and love.
