Tim Finn Lyrics

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My hands are tied
Oh I could be a victim
When my tongue won't move
You have tied with your heartstrings

When I needed you most
I couldn't find the language
When I needed you more

I couldn't say a word

My hands truly tied
Yeah I know I'm a prisoner
When my tongue wouldn't move
You have tied with your heartstrings again

And when I needed you most
I couldn't find the language
When I needed you more
I couldn't say a word

When I needed you most
I couldn't find the language
When I needed you more
I couldn't say a word

One day a heap on the ground
Next day I'm so proud
Today I don't know, I don't know
Hey

Your hands are cold
That's why I try to contain you
Now my words are cursed
Ember from the ashes

One day a heap on the ground
Next day I'm so proud
Today, I haven't got a clue
Feels like a river of tears

Today I'm gonna dry these eyes
No
When I needed you more
Couldn't say a word

Couldn't say a word

Overall Meaning

The song "Language" by Bic Runga, Dave Dobbyn, and Tim Finn is a song about the inability to communicate one's feelings and needs to another person. The repeated phrase "My hands are tied" represents the singer's feeling of being powerless and trapped in their own emotions. The line "When I needed you most, I couldn't find the language" expresses the frustration of wanting to reach out for help but not knowing how to articulate their pain. The line "You have tied with your heartstrings" suggests that the singer feels emotionally connected to the person they are addressing, but also somewhat controlled by them.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the central theme of the inability to communicate effectively. The repetition of the lines "When I needed you most, I couldn't find the language / When I needed you more, I couldn't say a word" highlights the importance of being able to express oneself in times of need. The lines "Your hands are cold / That's why I try to contain you" suggest that the person being addressed may be emotionally distant or unresponsive, which only serves to exacerbate the singer's sense of isolation.

Overall, "Language" is a poignant and introspective exploration of the difficulties of communication in relationships. Through its use of vivid imagery and evocative language, the song captures the profound sense of frustration and helplessness that can arise when we are unable to connect with those who are closest to us.

Line by Line Meaning

My hands are tied
I feel restricted and unable to act

Oh I could be a victim
I am vulnerable to the actions of others

When my tongue won't move
I am struggling to convey my thoughts and feelings

You have tied with your heartstrings
You have a hold on me emotionally

When I needed you most
During the moment of my greatest need

I couldn't find the language
I was unable to express myself clearly

When I needed you more
During a time of increased need

I couldn't say a word
I was completely speechless

My hands truly tied
I am genuinely unable to act

Yeah I know I'm a prisoner
I feel trapped and powerless

You have tied with your heartstrings again
You still have a strong emotional hold on me