The song lyrics were written by the band Van Halen, as they were asked to write a song for the 1979 movie "Over the Edge" starring Matt Dillon. The movie (and the lyrics, although more obliquely) are about bored, rebellious youth with nothing better to do than get into trouble. If you see the movie, these lyrics will make more sense. It's a great movie if you grew up in the 70s/80s you'll definitely remember some of these characters from your own life. Fun fact, after writing the song, Van Halen decided not to let the movie use it.
I learned a lot about falling in love when I fell out of love
I learned a lot about being a friend when I was alone
Well I played with fire, I burned it all down
I’ve made more mistakes than you can count
Well I played with fire, I burned it all down
I’ve made more mistakes than you can count
I learned a lot about being a friend when I was alone
Well I played with fire, I burned it all down
I’ve made more mistakes than you can count
Well I played with fire, I burned it all down
I’ve made more mistakes than you can count
Lyrics submitted by Medications
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I think it means that the dude, truly knew what love was once he had figured out what it's not. And also how to be a good friend, because he knows how horrible it is to be alone. I think he was in love, as well as had so many friends, but somehow fucked it all up he 'played with fire' and got burned- lots his friends- thus realizing how important it is to love and be a good friend from the lines before. And he regrets making these mistakes, and hates that he's all alone. Very depressing lyrics.