Introduction:
Emerging from the smoky haze of Nashville in the early 1970s, Kris Kristofferson carved a unique niche in the world of country music. Kristofferson, a Rhodes Scholar turned singer-songwriter, brought a literary sensibility and a touch of outlaw swagger to his music. His gruff baritone and introspective lyrics resonated with a generation yearning for authenticity and a departure from the polished pop-country sound that dominated the charts.
In 1972, amidst a string of critically acclaimed albums, Kristofferson unleashed “Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)”. The song, entirely written and composed by Kristofferson himself, stands as a testament to his songwriting prowess. It’s a poignant ballad that lays bare the raw ache of heartbreak, capturing the lingering pain and disillusionment that follow the loss of a love once thought everlasting.
While never officially released as a single, “Loving Her Was Easier” transcended the limitations of chart positions. It became a staple of Kristofferson’s live performances, earning a devoted following among his fans. The song’s raw honesty and relatable themes also resonated with his fellow musicians, leading to numerous cover versions by country music heavyweights like Waylon Jennings and Roger Miller. These renditions further cemented the song’s place in the country music canon.
“Loving Her Was Easier” is devoid of the traditional country music tropes of weepin’ steel guitars and saccharine tales of lost love. Instead, Kristofferson paints a melancholic picture with his evocative lyrics. The song opens with a stark image: “I’ve seen the morning burning golden on the mountain in the sky,” a symbol of a life once filled with hope and promise. The following lines, however, introduce a stark contrast: “Akin with a feeling of the freedom of an eagle when she flies, turning on the world the way she smiled.” Here, Kristofferson captures the intoxicating power of love, comparing the woman’s smile to the exhilarating freedom of an eagle’s flight.
This sets the stage for the emotional crux of the song: the devastating realization that the love is lost. The chorus, a simple yet powerful declaration – “Loving her was easier (Than anything I’ll ever do again)” – becomes an anthem for anyone who has grappled with the aftermath of a profound heartbreak. The song delves deeper, exploring the sense of disillusionment and the struggle to move on from a love that once felt eternal.
“Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)” is more than just a heartbreak ballad. It’s a testament to Kristofferson’s ability to translate complex emotions into simple, yet deeply affecting lyrics. This song, a cornerstone of his early career, continues to resonate with listeners today, solidifying its place as a classic of the country music genre.