Heart Beats Slow

“Heart Beats Slow” by Angus and Julia Stone is a poignant exploration of love, regret, and the passage of time. The song delves into the complexities of a relationship where one partner feels misunderstood and misrepresented. The opening lines suggest a sense of betrayal and disappointment, as the narrator hears about the other person's false bravado and their struggle to return to a simpler, more honest time. This sets the stage for a narrative filled with emotional conflict and longing.

The repeated imagery of not letting something into the kitchen, house, or through the front door symbolizes a protective barrier against emotional pain. The 'burning her pretty little heart' line evokes a sense of intense, consuming sorrow that the narrator is trying to shield their partner from. This metaphor highlights the internal struggle of wanting to protect someone while also dealing with the inevitable pain that comes with love and loss.

The chorus, with its repeated lines about missing the girl and the things they could have done, underscores a deep sense of regret and missed opportunities. The contrast between the narrator's fast movements and their slow-beating heart suggests a dichotomy between external actions and internal emotions. While they may appear to move quickly and be hard to keep up with, their heart beats slowly, indicating a deep, lingering emotional connection that is not easily shaken. The song concludes with a bittersweet farewell, wishing the best for the other person while acknowledging the enduring pain of their separation.