Love Without Tragedy / Mother Mary

Rihanna · Unapologetic (Deluxe Edition) [2012]

Red lipstick, rose petals, heartbreak

I was his Marilyn Monroe

Brown eyes, tuxedo, fast cars

A James Dean on the low,

Dean on the low



I ask you what's the matter

You say, oh it's nothing at all

Heart's racing, outta control

And you knew that I couldn't let it go



You used to be this boy I loved

And I used to be this girl of your dreams

Who knew the course of this one drive

Injured us fatally

You took the best years of my life

I took the best years of your life

Felt like love struck me in the night

I pray that love don't strike twice



Red lipstick, rose petals, heartbreak

I was his Marilyn Monroe

Brown eyes, tuxedo, fast cars

A James Dean on the low



What's love without tragedy

What's love without tragedy (Marilyn Monroe)

What's love without tragedy

What's love without tragedy



Mother Mary, I swear I wanna change

Mister Jesus, I'd love to be a queen

But I'm from the left side of an island

Never thought this many people would even know my name

As time flies, way above me

For you I've cried, tears sea-deep

Oh glory, the prayers carry me



I'll be a star, you keep directing me

Let's make the best scene they've ever seen

Let's capture the moment

Cause even forever ain't forever

I swear by the moment

Cause together ain't promised forever

Let's live in the moment

As long as we got each other

Die in the moment

I'm prepared to die in the moment

Cause even forever ain't forever

I swear by the moment

Cause together ain't promised forever

I swear by the moment

As long as we got each other

Die in the moment

I'm prepared to die in the moment

To die in the moment



Mother Mary, I swear I wanna change

Mister Jesus, I'd love to be a queen

But I'm from the left side of an island

Never thought this many people would even know my name

As time flies, way above me

For you I've cried, tears sea-deep

Oh glory, the prayers carry me



I'll be a star, you keep directing me

Let's make the best scene they've ever seen

Let's capture the moment

Cause even forever ain't forever

I swear by the moment

Cause together ain't promised forever

Let's live in the moment

As long as we got each other

Die in the moment

I'm prepared to die in the moment

I'm prepared to die in the moment

I'm prepared to die in the moment



Cause even forever ain't forever

I swear by the moment

I'm prepared to die in the moment

Love Without Tragedy / Mother Mary

Released on Rihanna's 2012 album Unapologetic, this dual-track recording blends R&B and pop sensibilities with a focus on vocal delivery and atmospheric production. The song features a smooth, melodic structure characteristic of her work during this era, exploring themes of romantic devotion and spiritual connection. It serves as a standout track on the deluxe edition, showcasing her ability to craft emotive ballads that balance personal vulnerability with polished studio craftsmanship. The recording reflects the broader musical landscape of early 2010s pop, emphasizing lyrical depth over aggressive hooks while maintaining a catchy, radio-friendly rhythm.