"The Chokin' Kind" is a song performed by Waylon Jennings, originally recorded by Harlan Howard in 1967. The lyrics reflect a narrative about a failed relationship where the narrator expresses his confusion and frustration towards their partner's insatiable demands. The song suggests that the narrator had genuine love for their partner and gave them their whole heart. However, despite this, the partner was not satisfied with the love they were receiving. They wanted more, specifically control over the narrator's thoughts and actions, resulting in an oppressive and suffocating love. The line "Your love scares me to death girl it's the chokin' kind" emphasizes the overwhelming and stifling nature of the partner's love. It depicts how the partner's desires and expectations became a burden for the narrator, causing fear and discomfort. In the second verse, the lyrics use metaphorical language to explain that while physical harm can be done with bullets, poison, or a knife, the emotional and mental harm caused by taking someone's pride and freedom is far more damaging. It portrays the partner's behavior as inherently harmful, as they are taking away the narrator's sense of self-worth and control over their own life. The chorus suggests that the narrator advises the partner to learn from their experience of failed love. They caution the partner to be more selective in finding love, to ensure it aligns with their desires and needs. However, the narrator emphasizes the importance of allowing love to be free and reciprocated, rather than suffocating or controlling. Overall, "The Chokin' Kind" serves as a reflection on the unhealthy dynamics of a relationship where one partner's demands become excessive, overwhelming, and ultimately destructive to the other person's well-being.
