Valentine

Belinda Carlisle's song 'Valentine' delves into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the lingering hope that accompanies it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is deeply in love with someone who belongs to another. The protagonist has made a rule to move on and get their feet back on the ground, yet they find themselves lost in thoughts of their beloved, feeling that time only flies when they are around. This juxtaposition of trying to move on while being unable to forget highlights the internal conflict and emotional struggle faced by the protagonist.

The song's imagery is rich and evocative, with references to cold and dark moments, long hair falling into eyes, and warm hands that signify a special connection. Despite these tender memories, the protagonist acknowledges the futility of their love, describing it as 'fighting this love in vain.' The sun may be shining, but it still feels like rain, symbolizing the persistent sadness and longing that overshadow any external brightness. The repeated plea for the beloved to look their way when 'hearts and flowers fade' underscores the hope that, perhaps one day, the beloved will recognize the depth of their feelings.

Carlisle's lyrics also touch on the complexity of relationships and the pain of being seen as a 'perfect stranger' by someone who once felt so close. The mention of a 'trip together 33,000 light years long' suggests a deep, almost cosmic connection that the protagonist feels, yet it remains unreciprocated. The song captures the essence of unrequited love, where the protagonist is left yearning and hoping for a change in the beloved's heart, even as they struggle with the reality of their situation.