Hysteria
Def Leppard
The Intoxicating Rush of Love in Def Leppard's 'Hysteria'
Def Leppard's 'Hysteria' is a song that captures the overwhelming and uncontrollable feelings of passion and desire that come with falling deeply in love. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and a craving for closeness with the object of the singer's affection. The repeated chorus, 'I get hysterical, hysteria / Oh can you feel it? / Do you believe it?' emphasizes the intense emotional state that the singer is experiencing, which is so powerful that it borders on the hysterical.
The use of the word 'hysteria' to describe this feeling is particularly evocative, suggesting a loss of control and a sense of being overpowered by emotion. The song's verses explore the magnetic pull between two people and the longing to know if the feelings are mutual. The lines 'I'm in love, I'm in deep, yeah / Hypnotized, I'm shakin' to my knees' illustrate the vulnerability and the physical impact of love. The singer is so captivated by their emotions that they are left shaking and seeking confirmation of the other person's feelings.
Def Leppard, known for their blend of hard rock and glam metal, delivers 'Hysteria' with a mix of powerful guitar riffs and anthemic choruses that drive home the song's theme of intense emotional experience. The music complements the lyrics by creating a soundscape that feels both urgent and dreamy, mirroring the sensation of being swept up in a wave of love. 'Hysteria' remains a standout track in Def Leppard's discography, showcasing their ability to combine rock intensity with the universal theme of love's dizzying highs.