Glory Of Love
Peter Cetera
A Ballad of Devotion: Unpacking Peter Cetera's 'Glory Of Love'
Peter Cetera's 'Glory Of Love' is a heartfelt ballad that speaks to the timeless theme of love and sacrifice. The song, released in 1986, became an emblematic power ballad of the decade, resonating with audiences for its emotional depth and Cetera's soaring vocals. As the former bassist and singer of the rock band Chicago, Cetera's solo career took a more mellow turn, focusing on love songs that often featured in movie soundtracks, including 'Glory Of Love' which was prominently featured in 'The Karate Kid Part II'.
The lyrics of 'Glory Of Love' depict a narrative of a person who is deeply in love and willing to do whatever it takes to protect and honor their partner. The song opens with a moment of reflection, as the singer acknowledges the depth of his feelings and his commitment to his loved one. The repeated vows of love and the promise never to leave the other alone underscore a theme of enduring companionship. The chorus, with its grand proclamation of fighting for honor and being a hero, taps into chivalric ideals, likening the singer to a knight in shining armor ready to defend and cherish his love.
Metaphorically, the song uses the concept of 'glory' to represent the pride and fulfillment one feels when acting out of love. The 'glory of love' suggests that the acts of love and sacrifice are noble and worthy of admiration. The repeated lines at the end of the song, 'We did it all for love,' emphasize that every struggle and triumph is worthwhile when motivated by love. The song's enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal message of love's power to inspire greatness and the belief that love is a cause worth fighting for.