"Heartaches By The Number" is a song recorded by Waylon Jennings, originally written by Harlan Howard. The song describes the pain and heartache caused by a tumultuous relationship. The first verse talks about the initial heartache when the person leaves. It emphasizes the intense pain experienced that was unexpected and overwhelming. The second verse mentions the second heartache when the person returns, but it becomes clear that they have no intention of staying. This adds to the pain and disappointment felt by the narrator. The chorus, "I've got heartaches by the numbers, troubles by the score," reflects the magnitude of the emotional pain and difficulties faced in the relationship. The line "Every day you love me less, each day I love you more" suggests an unbalanced and one-sided dynamic where the narrator's love continues to grow while the other person's feelings diminish. The third verse talks about the third heartache when the person calls and promises to come back, giving hope to the narrator. However, the person never arrives, leaving the narrator waiting and realizing that they have been let down again. The song portrays a cycle of heartache and disappointment, with the narrator keeping track of the pain experienced. The line "But the day that I stop counting that's the day my world will end" implies that counting and acknowledging the heartaches is a coping mechanism for the narrator. It emphasizes the significance of the pain in their life and the difficulty of moving on. Overall, "Heartaches By The Number" depicts the recurring pain, longing, and frustration of a love that cannot be won. It explores the emotional rollercoaster of a troubled relationship and the impact it has on the narrator's life.
