"Sorrow (Breaks A Good Man Down)" by Waylon Jennings is a heartfelt song that explores the impact of disappointments and heartbreak on a person's life. The lyrics paint a picture of a once respected and happy individual who has been overwhelmed by sadness and sorrow. The song begins by emphasizing how the weight of disappointments can leave a trail of wreckage around the person. This is followed by the description of a good man who was once respected, but his sorrow and sadness have caused him to be broken down. The lyrics then take a turn, highlighting the protagonist's past love and life that brought happiness. However, this happiness is shattered when the person he loved deeply leaves, taking away the sunshine from his life. The mention of the wind speaking her name suggests that memories and reminders of the lost love haunt him constantly. Despite the pain, the protagonist expresses that he can't stop loving or living, even though there seems to be no solution or answer to his current situation. The lack of ambition and merely existing further illustrates the overwhelming impact of sorrow on his life. The instrumental section allows for a pause, letting the emotions conveyed in the lyrics sink in before returning to the chorus. The chorus repeats the theme that sorrow breaks down even a good man. Overall, the lyrics of "Sorrow (Breaks A Good Man Down)" depict the profound effects of disappointment and heartbreak, ultimately leaving the protagonist feeling broken and stripped of joy.
