Joe Cocker：Meaning of What Do I Tell My Heart? Songmeaning

The song "What Do I Tell My Heart?" by Joe Cocker tells the story of a person who is trying to move on from a broken relationship. The lyrics depict their struggle to cope with the pain and loneliness after their partner has left them. The protagonist of the song describes themselves wearing an old overcoat to protect themselves from the cold, symbolizing their attempt to shield themselves emotionally. They seek solace in alcohol and try to summon their courage to face the future, even though it's difficult. They express their determination to get along without their ex-partner and survive each night and day. The lyrics suggest that they believe there is always a way forward, even in situations where they feel trapped with no choice. Despite their determination, the protagonist acknowledges the difficulty of forgetting their ex-lover. They grapple with the question of what to tell their heart as it continues to ache. They initially lie to themselves, pretending that their partner simply overslept, but eventually confront the harsh truth that their relationship has ended. The lyrics hint at the frustration and sadness the protagonist feels as they try to find peace of mind. They struggle to explain the situation to themselves and find acceptance, as their heart keeps longing for their ex-partner and brings them down to their knees. The song also touches upon the irony of being deeply in love and dazzling to others, only to suddenly find oneself alone. It questions the strange nature of love and how it can quickly change. In the end, the protagonist acknowledges that they must find a way to move on and survive without their partner. They want to forget about them, but they also admit the difficulty of doing so. Overall, "What Do I Tell My Heart?" explores the emotions and challenges faced when trying to heal from a broken heart and move on from a past relationship. It captures the struggle of letting go, finding the strength to continue, and the lingering questions that come with heartbreak.