Secrets

Tears For Fears' song 'Secrets' delves into the complexities of human relationships and the destructive power of hidden truths. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the consequences of keeping secrets, likening them to a forest fire that starts with a mere flicker but eventually engulfs everything in its path. This metaphor underscores the idea that even small deceptions can lead to significant pain and destruction. The narrator acknowledges their role in causing pain and expresses a desire to stop keeping secrets, symbolically sending them 'out to space' where they can no longer cause harm.

The song also touches on themes of disillusionment and lost idealism. The narrator reflects on a time when they believed humanity could rise above its baser instincts, a belief they abandoned after a conversation with a priest. This shift in perspective adds a layer of existential contemplation to the song, suggesting that the struggle with secrets and honesty is part of a broader human condition. The repeated refrain of 'Oh my angel, woman child' adds a personal and intimate dimension, addressing someone who is both innocent and wise, perhaps a lover or a close confidant.

In the latter part of the song, there is a glimmer of hope. The narrator suggests that 'human kindness' could have healed the metaphorical blindness caused by secrets. They express a longing for love to fill the void left by these hidden truths, emphasizing that love can be a powerful antidote to the pain caused by deception. The repeated lines 'Time and time again' and 'It would be so fine if you could be mine' convey a yearning for redemption and a fresh start, free from the burdens of secrecy. This emotional journey from despair to hope makes 'Secrets' a poignant exploration of the human heart and its capacity for both suffering and healing.