Song Meaning
These lyrics paint a picture of profound intimacy, centered on a speaker's unwavering confidence in their ability to provide unparalleled comfort and pleasure. The repeated phrase, "I know how to hold you / I know how to touch you now," immediately establishes a sense of practiced skill and deep understanding. There's a clear assertion of expertise in making the other person "feel all right."
The central tension arises from the contrast between past and present. The speaker acknowledges, "I know what you've been through / I know how it's always been," suggesting a history of struggle or unfulfilled desires for the listener. This past, however, is dramatically eclipsed by the present moment, as the speaker declares, "But you've never felt what you feel tonight." This line is the emotional core, promising a transformative experience unlike any before.
The craft here leans heavily on repetition and a subtle, almost triumphant, tone. The speaker's earlier promises, "I always told you I'd do it to you / I told you I would give you such delight," now appear fulfilled, adding a layer of certainty and perhaps a touch of pride. This isn't just a new experience; it's one that was foreseen and delivered upon, reinforcing the speaker's deep connection and commitment.
Ultimately, these lyrics are effective because they tap into a universal desire for profound connection and release, especially after hardship. The speaker's confident, almost prophetic, voice, combined with the promise of unprecedented physical and emotional satisfaction, creates a powerful sense of security and exhilaration. The return to the opening lines at the close, "I know how to hold you now / And I know how to touch you now," solidifies the message, suggesting the promise has been delivered, and the feeling is real.