I've Come To Expect It From You

George Strait's song "I've Come To Expect It From You" delves into the raw emotions of heartbreak and betrayal. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man grappling with the pain of a recent breakup. The opening lines, "So upset, Nervous wreck, I can't believe she said goodbye," immediately set the tone of emotional turmoil. Strait's use of everyday actions like smoking and joking while crying highlights the struggle to cope with the overwhelming sadness and disbelief of being left behind.

The chorus reveals the depth of the betrayal felt by the protagonist. The lines, "How could you do what you gone and done to me, I wouldn't treat a dog the way you treated me," emphasize the severity of the mistreatment. The repeated phrase, "I've come to expect it from you," suggests a pattern of behavior from the ex-partner, indicating that this isn't the first time the protagonist has been hurt. This repetition underscores a sense of resignation and acceptance of the ex-partner's flawed character.

In the latter part of the song, the protagonist contemplates the futility of retaliation and the necessity of moving on. The lines, "I could raise hell, But what the hell it wouldn't do a bit of good," reflect a mature acknowledgment that revenge won't heal the wounds. Instead, the protagonist decides to leave, as indicated by, "There won't be no more next time doing me wrong, You'll come back this time to find that I'm gone." This resolution signifies a turning point, where the protagonist chooses self-respect and emotional well-being over staying in a toxic relationship. Strait's storytelling, combined with his traditional country sound, makes this song a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the strength to move forward.