My Heart Stops

Eric Carmen's song 'My Heart Stops' delves into the overwhelming and often inexplicable emotions that accompany falling in love. The lyrics capture the essence of a love so intense that it leaves the narrator in a state of awe and confusion. From the very beginning, the narrator tries to rationalize his feelings, telling himself that what he feels can't be love. However, he quickly realizes that his world has changed irrevocably, and he is merely dreaming if he thinks it can return to how it was before.

The song's chorus, with its repetitive 'Wo-wo-wo when you go walkin' by, my heart stops,' emphasizes the physical and emotional impact the beloved has on the narrator. This reaction is so powerful that it defies explanation, leaving him unable to articulate why he feels so high at the mention of her name or why he acts so shy in her presence. The repeated phrase 'can't explain' underscores the mystery and intensity of his emotions, suggesting that love operates on a level beyond rational understanding.

Carmen's lyrics also explore the internal struggle of trying to maintain composure while being overwhelmed by love. The narrator attempts to 'play it cool' and hide his feelings, but he inevitably gives himself away every time he encounters the object of his affection. The imagery of a 'wave of love rushin' over me' and a 'flame of love burnin' through me' vividly conveys the uncontrollable and consuming nature of his emotions. Ultimately, 'My Heart Stops' is a heartfelt portrayal of the bewildering and all-encompassing experience of falling deeply in love, capturing both its beauty and its inexplicability.