"Broke" by Joe Budden is a song about a failed relationship that was once filled with love but ultimately ended in heartbreak and separation. The lyrics portray the emotions and thoughts of both individuals involved in the relationship. The song begins with the hook sung by a female vocalist, expressing how the couple's love has shattered like skeletons, emphasizing the fragility of their hearts. The lyrics suggest that they have not seen or spoken to each other for a while. In the first verse, Joe Budden reflects on the beginning of their relationship, describing it as magical. However, he acknowledges that it ended abruptly, questioning if their love was genuine or built on lies. He contemplates the possibility of it being a test, as some say true love comes back if you let it go. He also mentions how she accused him of being a thief, taking something from her without giving back. Despite all that he has done, he expected some gratitude but is disappointed by their current state of being unable to even have a casual conversation. Both individuals are portrayed as irrational and incompatible. The pre-hook suggests that she believes she deserves someone better, implying that their bond was not as strong as Joe Budden thought it was. The lyrics convey a sense of uncertainty and an acknowledgment that they may never truly understand why they broke apart. The second verse delves deeper into the negative aspects of their relationship. Joe Budden highlights the transition from love to hatred and how their personal lives became public gossip. He claims to know all her flaws and sees the true essence of her soul. He mentions that she now surrounds herself with new friends who he perceives as basic. There is a sense that she is avoiding love and protecting herself from being hurt again. Despite this, she still reaches out on his birthday to express missing him and keeps an eye on his activities. Joe Budden questions whether they should try again to see if their relationship can be what it should be. The bridge adds another perspective from the female vocalist, who sings about being the person he tries to hide from, the one he can't forget. She confesses to lying awake in bed, feeling scared and vulnerable. They pushed each other to the point where there was nothing left. The lyrics convey that she gave everything she had, and now they have reached the end. The song's overall story revolves around a love that has disintegrated into brokenness, with both individuals feeling the pain of the separation. It explores themes of desolation, uncertainty, and self-reflection.
