Song Meaning
Diane Schuur's "Impossible" isn't just a love song; it's a testament to the transformative power of connection on a soul previously resigned to solitude. The lyrics paint a portrait of someone who had erected emotional barriers, dismissing the possibility of experiencing profound joy or love. The repeated assertion of "Impossible" serves as a haunting echo of past disappointments and a deeply ingrained skepticism. It's the mantra of a heart that's been burned, a spirit that's learned to guard itself against vulnerability. Schuur isn't merely singing about disbelief; she's embodying the psychological defense mechanisms we construct to protect ourselves from further pain. The song subtly explores the subconscious resistance to happiness, a phenomenon where individuals, accustomed to hardship, unconsciously sabotage opportunities for joy, fearing the inevitable return of suffering.
That initial denial, however, cracks open as the song progresses. The shift occurs not through force, but through the gentle, undeniable presence of another person. The lyrics, "But now at last I see / That nothing is impossible / If you are here with me," mark a pivotal moment of surrender. It's the realization that love, in its purest form, can dismantle even the most formidable defenses. The "impossible" scenarios – the sweet kiss, the love beyond the rainbow, the moonbeam calming a stormy sea – become tangible realities, not because of some magical intervention, but because of the grounding, transformative influence of a genuine connection.
Ultimately, "Impossible" resonates because it taps into a universal yearning for connection and the quiet hope that even the most hardened hearts can be softened. It acknowledges the ingrained cynicism that many carry, born from past hurts and disappointments. But it also offers a powerful counter-narrative: that love, in its most profound expression, can redefine our perceptions of what's possible, offering a glimpse of a reality far more beautiful and hopeful than we ever dared to imagine. Schuur's performance isn't just a vocal exercise; it's an emotional journey from guarded skepticism to open-hearted acceptance, a journey that many listeners will undoubtedly recognize within themselves.