Merle Haggard – You Take Me for Granted

Merle Haggard - You Take Me for Granted (1983) - YouTube

About the song

You Take Me for Granted by Merle Haggard: A Country Ballad of Love and Loss

In the realm of country music, Merle Haggard stands as a towering figure, a true icon whose heartfelt lyrics and poignant melodies have resonated with generations of listeners. Among his vast repertoire of hits, “You Take Me for Granted” holds a special place, a ballad that encapsulates the complexities of love, loss, and the yearning for connection.

Released in 1983 as part of the album Going Where the Lonely Go, “You Take Me for Granted” is a prime example of Haggard’s songwriting prowess. With its simple yet evocative lyrics and a melody that tugs at the heartstrings, the song paints a vivid portrait of a love taken for granted, leading to a relationship on the brink of collapse.

The song’s opening lines establish the central theme with a stark honesty that sets the tone for the entire piece:

“I know I’m not perfect, I’ve made my share of mistakes But I’ve always been here for you, through thick and thin, for goodness sake”

The narrator, a devoted partner, laments the fact that their love and sacrifices have been overlooked, their presence taken for granted. The lyrics capture the universal pain of being undervalued, the frustration of pouring one’s heart and soul into a relationship that seems to lack reciprocation.

As the song progresses, the narrator’s plea for recognition becomes more urgent:

“I’m not asking for much, just a little appreciation A kind word or a gentle touch, to show that you still care”

Their words resonate with anyone who has ever felt unseen or unappreciated in a relationship, highlighting the importance of expressing love and gratitude in tangible ways.

The chorus, with its simple yet powerful refrain, drives home the song’s message:

“You take me for granted, and it’s breaking my heart I’m not gonna stand here and watch our love fall apart”

The narrator’s declaration of self-worth is a poignant reminder that even the most devoted partners have their limits. Emotional neglect can erode the strongest of bonds, leading to resentment and ultimately, the end of a relationship.

“You Take Me for Granted” concludes with a glimmer of hope, a suggestion that perhaps there’s still a chance to salvage the relationship if both partners are willing to make an effort:

“I’m not giving up on us, but I can’t keep going on like this We need to talk, we need to change, or our love will surely miss”

The song ends on a poignant note, leaving the listener with a sense of reflection and a reminder to cherish and appreciate the love in their lives before it’s too late.

With its timeless message and relatable lyrics, “You Take Me for Granted” remains a powerful country ballad that continues to touch the hearts of listeners worldwide. It’s a testament to Merle Haggard’s songwriting genius, his ability to craft songs that speak to the human experience with honesty, emotion, and enduring resonance.

Video

Lyrics

“You Take Me For Granted”

 

My legs and my feet have walked ’till they can’t hardly move
From tryin’ to please you
And my back is sore from bendin’ over backwards
To just lay the world at your door.

And I’m trying so hard to keep a smile on a sad face
While deep down it’s breakin’ my heart
And as sure as the sunshines I’ll be a lifetime
Not knowin’ if I’ve done my part.

‘Cause you take me for granted
And it’s breakin’ my heart
And as sure as the sunshines I’ll be a lifetime
Not knowin’ if I’ve done my part.

And as sure as the sun shines I’ll be a lifetime
Not knowin’ if I’ve done my part…