(Harlan Howard)

He's just a little meaner then maybe I can break away
Make me cry a little harder then maybe I won't want to stay
You don't love me and I know it experiences taught me so
So be just a little meaner then I'll give up at last and go.

He'll hurt me just a little and fill my heart with doubts and fears
And you love me just a little and I'll forget yesterday's tears
If you'd really truly hurt me I might forget I'd love you so
Please be just a little meaner then I'll give up at last and go.

--- Instrumental ---

Be just a little meaner honey won't you set me free
I can hardly remember the last time you said you love me
After all the love I gave you what I ask is only fair
Please be just a little meaner so I can run and hide somewhere...