I Walk the Line
Various Artists Lyrics


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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

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

As sure as night is dark and day is 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 the 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

Overall Meaning

The song "I Walk The Line" was written by Johnny Cash in 1956, and it was included on his album of the same name. The song is a declaration of devotion to a loved one, where Cash explains that he keeps himself in check and stays true to his partner. The song's famous opening line "I keep a close watch on this heart of mine" indicates that Cash is aware of his own feelings and is committed to staying on the right path for the sake of his relationship.


In the second verse, Cash emphasizes how easy it is for him to be faithful and true to his loved one. He admits that he is a "fool" for the one he loves in the chorus, but also points out that his commitment to this person has brought him happiness. The third verse highlights how much this person is on Cash's mind, and how he believes that their relationship is the right thing for him.


The final verse shows how much Cash trusts his partner and how their love makes him want to stay on the straight and narrow. The line "you've got a way to keep me on your side" shows that the person he loves is a source of support for him, which makes him feel secure enough to walk the line.


Line by Line Meaning

I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I pay close attention to my emotions and feelings, making sure they remain under control.


I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I am always vigilant and alert, not allowing anything to sneak up on me.


I keep the ends out for the tie that binds
I'm aware of what may drive people apart in a relationship and actively try to prevent that from happening.


Because you're mine, I walk the line
I stay loyal and committed to you, no matter what the cost, because I love you.


I find it very, very easy to be true
I don't have to put forth any effort to be honest and faithful, because it comes naturally when I'm with you.


I find myself all alone when each day is through
At the end of the day, it's just me and my thoughts, but they are filled with thoughts of you.


Yes, I'll admit that I'm a fool for you
I am completely vulnerable and devoted to you, even if it makes me appear foolish to others.


As sure as night is dark and day is light
Just as the natural order of day and night is predictable, my love for you is unwavering and unchanging.


I keep you on my mind, both day and night
You are always at the forefront of my thoughts, whether I'm awake or asleep.


And happiness, I've known proves that it's right
My past experiences have shown me that being with you brings me true happiness and fulfillment.


You've got a way to keep me on your side
You possess qualities that draw me to you and make me want to stay by your side.


You give me cause for love that I can't hide
Your actions and words constantly remind me of why I love you and it's impossible to keep those feelings bottled up.


For you, I know, I'd even try to turn the tide
If necessary, I'm willing to go to great lengths to protect our relationship and keep us together.


Because you're mine, I walk the line
I am devoted to you and will do whatever it takes to maintain our relationship and keep our love strong.




Contributed by Samuel S. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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