Heartbeat Like A Drum

A Flock of Seagulls' song 'Heartbeat Like A Drum' captures the intense emotions and physical sensations that come with falling in love. The repetitive imagery of a heartbeat like a drum underscores the overwhelming and almost uncontrollable feelings the narrator experiences whenever they see or think about their love interest. This metaphor of the heart beating like a drum is a powerful way to convey the physical impact of love, suggesting a rhythm that is both persistent and inescapable.

The lyrics delve into the highs and lows of love, from the euphoria of seeing the beloved ('Every time you walk on by, I got a sight high') to the despair and vulnerability that love can bring ('You make me lie, you make me cry, I wanna die'). This juxtaposition highlights the complex and often contradictory nature of romantic feelings. The narrator's desire to express their love ('Then I'll have to tell you what you mean to me') is tempered by a fear of rejection or misunderstanding, as indicated by the repeated hesitations and self-doubt ('I didn't did I', 'oh no').

Culturally, the song reflects the 1980s new wave music scene, characterized by its synthesizer-driven sound and emotional, often introspective lyrics. A Flock of Seagulls, known for their distinctive style and futuristic themes, encapsulate the era's fascination with both the technological and the deeply personal. The refrain 'It really doesn't matter what they say' suggests a defiance against societal norms or external judgments, emphasizing the personal and subjective nature of love. This sentiment resonates with the broader cultural context of the 1980s, a time when individual expression and breaking away from traditional expectations were highly valued.