Song Meaning
Joan Armatrading's 'Feeling in My Heart (For You)' isn't a simple love song; it's a study in vulnerability and tentative hope after past heartbreak. The opening lines, "I have lost in love / I have lost in love / That's twice today," immediately establish a history of romantic disappointment. This isn't naivete; it's the weary yet persistent voice of someone who knows the risks but still chooses to engage with the possibility of connection. The repetition emphasizes the weight of these past experiences, suggesting a pattern of loss that informs her present outlook.
The core of the song meaning lies in the decision to overcome fear and embrace a new relationship. The lines, "I won't be afraid / I won't be afraid / To love this time," are a declaration of intent, a conscious effort to break free from the cycle of past failures. The lyrics reveal a desire for tenderness and security, a need for reassurance expressed in the simple plea, "Will you be kind to me?" This vulnerability is further amplified by the declaration, "Darling I'm yours," a complete surrender tempered by the hope of reciprocation.
The recurring phrase, "I got a feeling in my heart for you," acts as both a statement of burgeoning love and an affirmation of intuition. It's a gut feeling, a sense of certainty that transcends rational analysis. Armatrading emphasizes the authenticity of this feeling with the line, "I got a feeling in my heart that's true," suggesting a deep-seated belief in the potential of this connection. The promise to "Never leave your side / I will never turn my back on you" signals a commitment to unwavering loyalty, born from the desire to create a lasting and secure bond. Ultimately, 'Feeling in My Heart (For You)' is a testament to the resilience of the human heart, its capacity to heal and to love again even after repeated setbacks.