What Could Have Been Love

Aerosmith's song "What Could Have Been Love" is a poignant reflection on lost opportunities and the lingering pain of what might have been. The lyrics, delivered with the band's signature rock ballad style, delve into the emotions of someone who has lost a love that could have been life-changing. The narrator wakes up questioning their own role in the downfall of the relationship, revealing a deep sense of regret and self-blame. The use of the phrase 'nowhere-bound train' metaphorically represents a decision that led them away from their partner and towards a path of loneliness and reflection.

The chorus of the song is a powerful lament for the lost potential of a relationship that was never fully realized. The repetition of 'What could have been love' emphasizes the enduring impact of the missed connection. The narrator acknowledges their blindness to what was 'right in front of me,' suggesting a realization that came too late. This theme of hindsight and the pain of understanding one's mistakes only after the fact is a universal human experience, which resonates deeply with listeners who have faced similar situations in their own lives.

The song also touches on the concept of moving on, as the narrator hears about their former partner finding someone new. Despite the passage of time, the narrator admits to still holding on to the past, unable to let go. The imagery of the partner 'slipping through my hands' conveys a sense of helplessness and missed opportunity. Ultimately, the song is a melancholic ode to a love that was never fully explored, leaving an empty space where a deep connection could have existed. It's a reminder that the choices we make can have lasting consequences on our hearts and lives.