Hard to Love

BLACKPINK's song 'Hard to Love' delves into the complexities of being emotionally guarded and the challenges it poses in relationships. The lyrics express a candid confession from the perspective of someone who is self-aware of their difficulties in being vulnerable and trusting others. The protagonist warns a potential lover to maintain distance, not out of disinterest, but out of concern, highlighting a protective instinct over the other person's emotional well-being.

The song's chorus emphasizes the struggle with trust and the tendency to sabotage things when they seem too good to be true. The protagonist admits to not being able to fully commit or give their all to the relationship, suggesting a fear of intimacy or past traumas that make them 'hard to love.' This internal conflict is further illustrated by the juxtaposition of wanting to provide a heavenly experience while also acknowledging their own flaws and the potential to cause emotional turmoil.

The bridge of the song reinforces the theme of caution in love, advising against playing with fire and protecting one's heart. It speaks to the idea that once certain boundaries are crossed, there may be no turning back, and the protagonist is trying to prevent that irreversible step. The repeated assertion of being 'hard to love' serves as both a defense mechanism and a plea for understanding, making the song a poignant reflection on the barriers people erect to shield themselves from the vulnerabilities of love.