Song Meaning
The narrator grapples with the initial decision to choose a partner, questioning the 'why' behind a love that feels almost inexplicable in retrospect. The opening lines, 'Why did I choose you? / What did I see in you?', set a tone of bewildered reflection, as if the narrator is looking back from a distance, trying to reconstruct the logic of a past emotional choice. This isn't doubt, but a profound acknowledgment of love's often irrational pull.
The core tension lies in the contrast between the partner's outward presentation and their inner self, which the narrator perceived. The lyrics suggest the partner hid their 'heart so well,' yet the narrator saw past this facade to a 'gentle way' that cast a 'glowing spell.' This perception of hidden depth and tenderness is presented as the primary, almost magical, reason for the narrator's attraction, a quiet strength that captivated them.
The craft here hinges on the direct, almost conversational questioning and the subsequent revelation of what was truly seen. The repetition of 'Why did I choose you?' and 'Why did I want you?' emphasizes the narrator's deep contemplation. The pivotal moment is the admission of willingly losing their heart, 'lovingly and willingly,' highlighting the complete surrender involved. The final declaration, 'If I had to choose again / I would still choose you,' solidifies the enduring power of that initial, perhaps inscrutable, choice.
This passage resonates because it captures the complex nature of deep affection – the initial mystery, the profound recognition of a partner's true essence, and the ultimate affirmation of that bond. It's not about grand gestures, but the quiet, powerful realization of seeing and being seen, leading to a love that transcends the need for logical explanation, proving its own worth over time.