"Your Letter" by Joan Armatrading is a heartfelt song about longing, love, and the power of written communication. The lyrics depict the narrator receiving and reading a letter from a loved one, which brings solace and companionship in their absence. The song begins with the narrator mentioning how they read the letter the day before, feeling the intimacy of the words against their skin. The letter serves as a connection between the narrator and their beloved, bridging the gap between their tears and yearning for each other. The narrator reflects on their relationship, acknowledging that it has been a complicated one. They admit to giving only bits and pieces of themselves at times, while at others, they held back entirely. Despite this, there is an enduring love felt for the recipient of the letter. The chorus reveals that the loved one has been gone for too long. The narrator declares their love for them, claiming that they are the best. The line "You call me crazy, That's how you won my heart" suggests that their shared eccentricities and mutual understanding made their connection strong. The second verse continues with the narrator reading the letter again, this time out loud and to themselves. The act of reading brings back a sense of sanity and comfort, diminishing feelings of isolation. The letter becomes a lifeline, reminding the narrator that they are not alone in their longing. The bridge expresses the anticipation of seeing the loved one again. The narrator mentions a night on a summer's day, emphasizing the heightened excitement and impatience. The thought of the loved one walking into an empty room with only the two of them present creates a sense of anticipation and longing. The final lines convey the narrator's longing for physical touch. They mention feeling the loved one's touches through their letters, but they acknowledge that it is not as good as having them physically present. The plea for the loved one to explain their emotions and desires helps emphasize the depth of the connection and the need for open communication. Overall, "Your Letter" is a song that illustrates the power of a written message to provide comfort, companionship, and a sense of connection in the midst of longing and separation.
