“My Heart Will Go On” is a timeless ballad performed by Celine Dion, serving as the main theme song for the 1997 blockbuster film Titanic. Composed by James Horner with lyrics by Will Jennings, the song encapsulates the enduring love and emotional resilience that are central to the film’s narrative.
The poignant melody and heartfelt lyrics convey a message of love that transcends physical boundaries and time, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide. The song’s powerful performance by Celine Dion, coupled with its association with one of the most iconic films in cinematic history, has cemented “My Heart Will Go On” as a beloved and enduring anthem of love and loss.
In this article, we’ll explore the message conveyed in the song’s lyrics.
“My Heart Will Go On” Lyrics Meaning
[Verse 1]
Every night in my dreams
I see you, I feel you
That is how I know you go on
In this opening verse, the singer expresses how the presence of a loved one continues to be felt in her dreams. Despite the physical absence, the emotional connection remains strong, suggesting that the loved one’s essence or memory endures.
Far across the distance
And spaces between us
You have come to show you go on
Here, the singer acknowledges the physical separation between herself and the loved one. Despite the distance, the loved one’s presence is still felt, demonstrating that their bond transcends physical space.
[Chorus]
Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on
Once more, you open the door
And you’re here in my heart
And my heart will go on and on
The chorus emphasizes the enduring nature of love. Regardless of physical proximity (“near, far, wherever you are”), the singer believes that love persists (“the heart does go on”). The metaphorical “opening the door” signifies the loved one re-entering her life or heart, reinforcing that their emotional connection remains unbroken.
[Verse 2]
Love can touch us one time
And last for a lifetime
And never let go ’til we’re gone
This verse reflects on the profound impact of love. Even if experienced briefly (“one time”), its effects can last a lifetime. The singer suggests that true love remains with us until the end of our lives.
Love was when I loved you
One true time I’d hold to
In my life, we’ll always go on
The singer reminisces about a specific moment of true love, indicating its lasting significance. She holds onto this memory, asserting that their love will continue to influence her life perpetually.
[Chorus]
You’re here, there’s nothing I fear
And I know that my heart will go on
We’ll stay forever this way
You are safe in my heart
And my heart will go on and on
In the final chorus, the singer finds comfort and fearlessness in the presence of her loved one, whether physical or emotional. She is confident that their love will persist eternally, providing a sense of security (“You are safe in my heart”). The repetition of “my heart will go on and on” reinforces the enduring nature of their bond.
Deeper Meaning Behind “My Heart Will Go On”
The song “My Heart Will Go On” was written specifically as the theme song for James Cameron’s 1997 film Titanic. It was meant to capture the epic love story between the characters Jack and Rose portrayed in the movie.
Will Jennings wrote the lyrics from the perspective of an elderly person looking back on memories over many years, which aligned with the film’s framing device of an older Rose recounting her experiences.
The song’s lyrics convey a powerful message about the persistence of love. The phrase “my heart will go on” signifies that the love and emotional connection between the protagonist and their loved one will continue despite any obstacles or distances. This theme is encapsulated in the lines:
Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on
This suggests that love is an unstoppable force that endures through time and space. It mirrors the film’s narrative of love surviving even after the catastrophic sinking of the Titanic. It is played during the end credits of the film, symbolizing the everlasting bond between the characters.
Over the years, “My Heart Will Go On” has become a timeless anthem for those dealing with grief and separation. Its message of enduring love resonates with listeners worldwide, making it a song that transcends its original context in the film.
Jacob Carter is a lyricist. He created the lyrics writing course to teach people how to analyze and write lyrics. He graduated from the University of Oxford with a degree in English Literature, so he’s skilled at playing with words.
He’s also an amateur guitarist, which means he knows music and melody very well. With this background, he’s a great lyricist you can rely on to learn writing lyrics.