What Kind of Heart

Lhasa de Sela's song "What Kind of Heart" delves into the complexities of love and vulnerability through a series of poignant metaphors. The repeated question, "What kind of heart would a blind man choose?" suggests a deep exploration of how one navigates love without the ability to see, relying instead on intuition and emotional resonance. This metaphor of blindness can be interpreted as a representation of the uncertainty and unpredictability inherent in love, where one must trust their feelings rather than their eyes.

The imagery of wearing a "wooden glove tied behind your back" further emphasizes the theme of vulnerability. A wooden glove, being rigid and unfeeling, contrasts sharply with the softness and sensitivity typically associated with human touch. This could symbolize the barriers and defenses people put up to protect themselves from emotional pain. The fact that it is tied behind the back suggests a sense of helplessness or being trapped, unable to fully engage or express oneself in love.

The clacking fingers of the wooden glove add an eerie, almost haunting quality to the song, reinforcing the idea of love as something that can be both beautiful and unsettling. Lhasa de Sela's haunting vocals and minimalist instrumentation enhance the song's introspective and melancholic mood, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love and vulnerability. Through its evocative lyrics and emotional depth, "What Kind of Heart" captures the essence of the human condition, where love is both a source of profound connection and a potential cause of deep pain.