I Will

Song Meaning

Kathy Mattea's "I Will" isn't just a simple profession of love; it's a study in devotion bordering on the abstract. The song meaning resides in the unwavering commitment it portrays, a willingness to love and wait, regardless of circumstance or even recognition. The opening lines establish this immediately: "Who knows how long I've loved you?/ You know I love you still." This isn't about a specific moment or connection, but a timeless, almost pre-destined affection. It transcends the need for reciprocation or even acquaintance; the singer admits to never having caught the object of affection's name, yet insists, "it never really mattered, I will always feel the same." The lyrics paint a picture of a love that exists in a realm beyond the tangible. It’s a promise echoing through time, a steadfast beacon in the face of uncertainty. The repetition of "Love you forever and forever" and "Love you with all my heart" reinforces the all-encompassing nature of this emotion. This isn't a fleeting crush or a passionate affair; it's a foundational element of the singer's being. The anticipation of finally finding the loved one is less about the discovery itself and more about the culmination of this enduring devotion. Ultimately, "I Will" explores the psychology of unconditional love. It acknowledges the potential for loneliness ("Will I wait a lonely lifetime?") but chooses commitment nonetheless. The song's power lies in its simplicity and unwavering focus. The desire for the loved one's "song" to "fill the air" and be sung "loud" is a plea for recognition, not as a requirement for love, but as a means to bridge the gap between this abstract devotion and tangible reality. It is a testament to the enduring power of love, even in the absence of complete fulfillment.