"Hammering Heart" by John Mark McMillan is a song rich in imagery and metaphors. The lyrics delve into the power and forces of nature, comparing them to the strength and passion of the human heart. The song starts with the image of horses running and pounding the earth like thunder. This represents the wild and untamed nature of the heart, its unstoppable energy. The courses they're on being crushed in their wake signifies the impact and consequences of following one's heart's desires. The force of the sun pounding the earth asunder symbolizes the immense power and intensity of love. It suggests that love has the ability to rupture and transform the world around us. The torch of her strength, which none can escape, refers to the unwavering and irresistible influence of love. The subsequent verses shift focus to the sea and its influence. Ships toeing their lines beneath the stars and wander depict the vastness of the ocean and the sense of journey and exploration it provides. The moon's ability to tow the tides and push the currents under represents the rhythm and flow of love, how it can shape and guide our lives. The continents bowing to the grinding sea emphasizes the strength and relentlessness of love, how it can erode and reshape even the most solid foundations. The chorus emphasizes the hammering heart of The Maker, which can be interpreted as the heart of God or the divine. It suggests that the power and intensity of human love is a reflection of the divine love within us. The repetition of "the hammering, hammering heart" emphasizes its raw and pounding nature, highlighting the depths of emotion and passion. The bridge brings a more introspective and personal aspect to the song. The narrator questions their existence, wondering if they crawled out of a humble place just to live in the current state. The lines about hope and dopamine highlight the desire for fulfillment and happiness, with dopamine representing the chemical reward in our brains. The lyrics suggest that in the grind of life, everyone ultimately faces struggles and hardships. In summary, "Hammering Heart" explores the force and intensity of love, drawing comparisons to the power of nature. It highlights both the grandeur and vulnerability of the human heart, ultimately questioning our hopes and aspirations in the face of life's challenges.
