Desperately
Don Williams
The Depths of Desperate Love
Don Williams' song "Desperately" delves into the intense emotions and vulnerabilities that come with being deeply in love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person whose heart is completely consumed by their feelings for another. The phrase "My heart is out of control" sets the tone for the song, indicating that the protagonist's emotions are overwhelming and uncontrollable. This love-struck soul lives for the moments when their beloved is around, suggesting a dependency that borders on obsession.
The chorus, with lines like "Desperately loving you desperately" and "When you're not here with me I get a little bit crazy," highlights the protagonist's desperation and the mental turmoil they experience in the absence of their loved one. The use of the word "desperately" repeatedly emphasizes the intensity and urgency of their feelings. The comparison to a "little baby" further underscores the vulnerability and helplessness that love can bring, making the protagonist feel dependent and emotionally exposed.
The song also touches on the unpredictability and risks of such profound emotions. The lines "Will I laugh will I cry will I live will I die it all depends upon you" reflect the protagonist's realization that their emotional state is entirely at the mercy of their beloved. This dependency is acknowledged as dangerous, yet the protagonist admits there's nothing they can do about it. The song captures the essence of being so deeply in love that it becomes both a source of immense joy and potential pain, encapsulating the duality of passionate love.