The song "Hurt My Baby" by John Hiatt is about a person whose loved one has been deeply hurt by someone else. The lyrics convey the pain and frustration felt by the narrator, as they witness the lasting effects of the injury inflicted on their "baby" or "girl." The lyrics suggest that the injury was not just physical but also emotional, causing a permanent wound that runs deep. The narrator acknowledges that the pain has left a lasting impact on their loved one, who may not openly talk about it often. However, when the loved one becomes distant or withdrawn, the narrator understands that it is a result of the past hurt resurfacing. The song implies that the damage inflicted on the loved one has led to certain behavioral changes. The loved one has developed nervous ticks and constantly engages in high-speed activities as a way to prove they are still alive and in control, even though they may be operating on overdrive. Their sleep is disturbed by nightmares, preventing them from finding any peace or rest. The lyrics express the narrator's desire for justice or closure. They long for someone to come forward and take responsibility for the harm caused to their loved one. The narrator feels a strong protective instinct towards their "baby" or "girl" and is deeply affected by the suffering experienced by someone they deeply care about. Overall, "Hurt My Baby" speaks to the pain of witnessing a loved one endure harm and the frustration of not being able to mend their wounds in a mean and cruel world where people hurt one another.
