world affairs | January 12, 2026

The Meaning Behind The Song: Crying by Arlene Harden

TitleCrying
ArtistArlene Harden
Writer/ComposerJoe Melson & Roy Orbison
AlbumArlene Harden Sings Roy Orbison (1970)
Release DateApril 1, 1970
GenreCountry Cover
ProducerFrank Jones

“Crying,” originally performed by Roy Orbison, was covered by Arlene Harden in 1970. The song holds a deep emotional meaning, capturing the pain and heartbreak of unrequited love. The lyrics speak to the raw vulnerability experienced when encountering a past love, triggering a flood of emotions and tears. Arlene Harden beautifully conveys the overwhelming ache that accompanies longing for someone who no longer reciprocates your feelings.

The song begins with the narrator expressing how they were “alright for a while” and could even “smile for a while.” However, their emotions are stirred up when they unexpectedly encounter the person who broke their heart. The mention of the simple act of holding hands intensifies the pain, as it revives dormant memories and stirs up unresolved emotions. The chorus encapsulates the narrator’s struggle to move on, as they admit to crying over the person who doesn’t love them anymore.

The post-chorus highlights the power that the touch of a loved one’s hand can hold. It serves as a trigger, instantly bringing forth tears and a flood of mixed emotions. The second verse reflects the narrator’s realization that they are not, in fact, over their former love. They confess that their feelings have only intensified over time, insisting that they still love the person despite the heartache they have caused.

The chorus resurfaces, emphasizing the narrator’s persistent state of crying over their lost love. They acknowledge that the person is gone, signifying the end of their relationship. From that moment on, they are left to grapple with the incessant tears and longing that accompany their heartbreak.

“Crying” by Arlene Harden resonates with countless individuals who have endured the pain of unrequited love or the aftermath of a broken relationship. The song taps into the universal experience of longing for someone who no longer feels the same way, evoking deep emotions that listeners can relate to.

Personally, “Crying” holds a special place in my heart. The haunting melody and poignant lyrics well up feelings of nostalgia and heartache from my own past experiences. This song acts as a musical time capsule, transporting me back to moments of heartbreak and vulnerability. It serves as a cathartic outlet, allowing me to process and release the pain associated with lost love.

Listening to Arlene Harden’s rendition of “Crying” is a bittersweet experience. The sorrowful tone in her voice echoes the sentiment of the lyrics, capturing the rawness of unrequited love and the aftermath of a shattered relationship. It serves as a reminder that heartbreak is a universal emotion and that it’s okay to embrace vulnerability and let our tears flow.

In conclusion, “Crying” by Arlene Harden sheds light on the meaning behind the song and the emotions it evokes. This timeless classic explores the anguish that accompanies unrequited love and serves as a powerful tool for healing and self-reflection. Arlene Harden’s rendition beautifully captures the essence of heartache, making it a standout rendition of this beloved song.