Secret Love
George Michael
From Whispered Secrets to Shouted Love: George Michael's 'Secret Love'
George Michael's 'Secret Love' is a poignant exploration of the journey from concealed affection to open declaration. The song begins with the singer reminiscing about a love that was once hidden deep within his heart. This 'secret love' symbolizes a profound and personal emotion that he initially kept to himself, perhaps out of fear or uncertainty. The lyrics capture the internal struggle of harboring such intense feelings, which eventually become 'impatient to be free.' This impatience signifies the natural human desire to express love openly and honestly.
As the song progresses, the singer describes confiding in a 'friendly star,' a metaphor for the way dreamers often share their deepest desires with the universe. This act of telling the star about his love highlights the romantic and somewhat whimsical nature of his feelings. The star represents a safe, non-judgmental listener, allowing the singer to articulate just how wonderful his beloved is and why he is so deeply in love. This part of the song underscores the importance of acknowledging and validating one's emotions, even if only to oneself or an imaginary confidant.
The climax of the song is marked by the singer's decision to 'shout it from the highest hill,' symbolizing his transition from secrecy to openness. By proclaiming his love to the world, he experiences a sense of liberation and relief. The repetition of 'my secret love's no secret anymore' emphasizes the joy and freedom that come with being true to oneself and one's feelings. George Michael's heartfelt delivery and the song's lyrical progression beautifully capture the universal experience of moving from hidden affection to proud declaration, making 'Secret Love' a timeless anthem of love and authenticity.