This is one of my all-time favorite songs.

Just examining the lyrics, do you all this is a completely auto-biographical song about Prince himself? Was he epileptic until 7? Did his mom hold him up as a block to a strap? He does mention Bernadette who I assume is Andre Cymone's mother.

But if all this is true, then is the ripple and weed part true? If so, that kills the theory that Prince was straight-edge.

And what brings a tear to my eye is the line at the end of the song "Sometimes you gotta leave the one you love". Such a simple line, but such a strong sentiment. And so true.

I don't read too much into the personal stuff...I would never say for sure, what is true and what isn'twith Prince's youth, however, I do try to meditate on Prince's meanings...and with this song in general, my opinion is of a man that made sacrifice's, as a victorious person...I often think the song has several aged layers, that can go as far back as the Victrola record players, however, that is just me...and how my mind branches...Call it speculation.

As far as the love part goes...it may be similar to that idea of.. Loving the one you are with, if you cannot be with the one that u love....

There's a rose in a fisted glove....and the Eagle flies with the Dove. That kind of sacrifice. It is heavenly lonely...I call it.

No one likes this brilliant song??

the studio version of this track i've never really liked, but a couple live versions of it . a few others are like this for me . still waiting comes to mind as well (listening to it right now ). can't mess with the studio versions though .