"Take It Back" by John Hiatt is a song about the end of a relationship and the desire to reclaim what was lost. The lyrics express a sense of disappointment and regret, as the protagonist realizes that the love they once had has turned sour. The song opens with the plea to take back all the kisses that were stolen and to return to the family life that once was. It suggests that the relationship has been filled with constant fighting and brokenness, leading to a desire to take back any good wishes that were expressed. The chorus reveals the protagonist's realization that despite their efforts to make the relationship work, darkness and negativity have prevailed. The line "We were shooting for the sun, I guess the darkness finally won" symbolizes the initial hope and optimism they had in their love, which has now been overshadowed by pain. The repeated phrase "Take it back, take it back, all that love has done" emphasizes the longing to undo the consequences of their love. The protagonist desires to reclaim the positive memories, but also expresses the inability to handle the ongoing misery and just wants it all to be reversed. Overall, "Take It Back" portrays the feeling of disappointment, regret, and a desire to turn back time and undo the negative impact of a failed relationship. It reflects on the darkness that has overshadowed the initial love and the longing to reclaim what once brought happiness.
