Song Meaning
The lyrics paint a picture of a specific kind of affection, one that values a gentle, almost reverent approach to a treasured object, here represented by a diamond. The narrator advises to "love a man / Who loves a diamond," emphasizing how he "holds it softly / In the palm of his hand" and "Keeps it warm." This isn't just about material possession; it suggests a tender, protective care that extends to something precious, implying this is the ideal way to be loved.
This ideal stands in stark contrast to the narrator's past experiences with love, which are described as "overrated" and "hard to find." The repetition of this sentiment underscores a weariness with previous romantic endeavors, suggesting a search for something more substantial and less fraught than what they've known. The diamond, then, becomes a metaphor for a love that is carefully handled, not carelessly tossed aside or taken for granted.
The lyrics introduce a fascinating duality in the second half, with the lines "Be it true / Or be it underhanded" and "Be it real / Or be it underminded." This suggests a willingness to accept love even if its origins or nature are complex or imperfect, as long as it's met with a reciprocal commitment. The narrator states, "I won't harbor / And she won't crawl," and later, "She won't harbor / And I won't stall," indicating a mutual, active participation in the relationship, free from passive waiting or deceit.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics lies in their quiet insistence on a particular kind of emotional stewardship. By focusing on the gentle handling of the diamond, the song suggests that true affection is demonstrated through careful attention and warmth, a direct counterpoint to the narrator's past disillusionment. It's a call for a love that is both precious and purposefully tended, mirroring the care given to a cherished gem.
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