I Walk the Line
Dolly Parton Lyrics


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(Johnny Cash)

I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I keep the ends out for the ties that bind
Because you're mine I walk the line

I find it very very easy to be true
I find myself alone when each day's through
Yes I admit it, I am a fool for you
Because you're mine I walk the line

As sure as night is dark and day's light
I keep you on my mind both day and night
And happiness I've known proves that it's right
Because you're mine, I walk the line

You've got a way to keep me on your side
You give me cause for love that I can't hide
For you I know I'd even try to turn the tide
Because you're mine, I walk that line

I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I keep the ends out for the tie that binds
Because you're mine, I walk the line

Because you're mine, I walk the line
Because you're mine, I walk the line

I'm gonna walk it
I'm gonna walk the line
I'm gonna walk it, walk it, walk it
I'm gonna walk that line

I'm gonna walk it because you're mine
I'm gonna walk it, walk it
I'm gonna walk the line
I'm gonna walk it, walk it
I'm gonna walk the line




I'm gonna walk it
I'm gonna walk the line

Overall Meaning

Dolly Parton's version of I Walk the Line, originally recorded by Johnny Cash in 1956, is a love song emphasizing the importance of remaining faithful and loyal to one's partner. The song begins with the singer professing his dedication to his lover, keeping a watchful eye on his heart and staying alert to maintain their love connection. He acknowledges that it is effortless for him to be true in his relationship and even though he finds himself alone at times, he remains focused on his partner. He admits to being a fool for his lover, believing that his commitment to her is what drives him to keep walking the line.


The second verse explicates his unwavering love for his partner, stating that she is always on his mind, and his happiness is the result of being with her. The third part of the song highlights the unique way his partner has to keep him on her side and the love that she provokes in him that he cannot hide. He says that he would even try to turn the tide for her, anything to remain dedicated to her. The song ends with the singer restating his commitment to his lover, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and faithfulness in love.


Overall, I Walk the Line is a love song about remaining faithful to one's partner and the steadfast commitment required to sustain a healthy and happy relationship. The song's simplicity and straightforwardness in expressing the importance of loyalty in love have made it a classic.


Line by Line Meaning

I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I am careful about protecting my heart and making sure it stays true


I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I remain vigilant and watchful, never letting my guard down


I keep the ends out for the ties that bind
I am always on the lookout for connections that will keep me grounded and connected to what is important to me


Because you're mine I walk the line
I am loyal and committed to you, and it drives me to stay true to myself and my values


I find it very very easy to be true
Being true to myself and to you comes naturally and without hesitation


I find myself alone when each day's through
At the end of each day, I reflect and find that I am content and at peace with where I am


Yes I admit it, I am a fool for you
I am unabashedly devoted to you, even if it means people might see me as foolish


As sure as night is dark and day's light
My commitment to you is rock-solid and unwavering, like the cycles of day and night


I keep you on my mind both day and night
You are always in my thoughts, no matter what else is going on in my life


And happiness I've known proves that it's right
My happiness is evidence that staying true to you and myself is the correct path


You've got a way to keep me on your side
Your way of being and loving keeps me loyal and by your side


You give me cause for love that I can't hide
Your love for me inspires me to reciprocate and be open with my emotions


For you I know I'd even try to turn the tide
I would go to great lengths for you, even if it meant changing the course of events against all odds


Because you're mine, I walk that line
My love and loyalty to you guide me to stay true to myself and to our relationship


I'm gonna walk it
I will continue on this path


I'm gonna walk the line
I will stay true to myself and to you


I'm gonna walk it, walk it, walk it
I will carry on this commitment without fail


I'm gonna walk that line
I will continue to stay true to myself and to you no matter what


I'm gonna walk it because you're mine
My love for you compels me to stay true and loyal


I'm gonna walk it, walk it
I will continue to stay true to myself and to you even if it is difficult


I'm gonna walk the line
I will stay committed and loyal to you and our relationship


I'm gonna walk it, walk it
I will always continue to stay true to myself and to you


I'm gonna walk the line
I will remain steadfast and consistent in my loyalty and devotion to you


I'm gonna walk it
I will stay true to myself and to you until the end




Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: Johnny Cash

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Romy K.


on Gypsy Joe And Me

As a matter of fact she's contemplating suicide standing on the bridge, that's how they'll be together again.

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