Walk the Line
johny cash Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

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 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

In “I Walk The Line,” Johnny Cash reveals his loyalty and devotion to the woman he loves. He talks about the measures he takes to remain faithful and true to her, never giving in to temptation because of his love for her. The lyrics “I find it very, very easy to be true” convey his absolute commitment to her. The line “As sure as night is dark and day is light, I keep you on my mind both day and night” shows how he thinks of her constantly and that even the thought of her is enough to make him stay loyal. He also speaks to the happiness he’s known, which he attributes to his love and devotion to her. Cash also admits to being a fool for her, but he does so willingly because he loves her, and he will do anything for her.


The theme of the song is undying love and devotion, but it also speaks to the difficulties that sometimes come with staying true. Cash talks about keeping a close watch on his heart and eyes to avoid any distractions that could potentially tear them apart. He acknowledges that there might be adversity along the way, but because of his love for her, he will always walk the line.


Line by Line Meaning

I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I am very cautious about my emotions and feelings


I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I am always alert and aware of my surroundings and situations


I keep the ends out for the tie that binds
I try to avoid things that might cause problems in my relationship


Because you're mine, I walk the line
I am committed to you and will do everything it takes to be faithful and loyal


I find it very, very easy to be true
Being honest and faithful comes naturally to me


I find myself alone when each day is through
I often spend a lot of time thinking about you when I am alone


Yes, I'll admit that I'm a fool for you
I am deeply in love with you and sometimes do things that might seem foolish to others


As sure as night is dark and day is light
I am certain and confident about my feelings for you


I keep you on my mind both day and night
I think about you constantly, even when I am working or sleeping


And happiness I've known proves that it's right
My happiness with you is a clear indication that our relationship is meant to be


You've got a way to keep me on your side
You have a special quality that makes me want to stay in this relationship


You give me cause for love that I can't hide
You inspire strong feelings of love in me that I cannot ignore


For you I know I'd even try to turn the tide
I am willing to take action to make things work in our relationship, even when things get difficult




Contributed by Tyler K. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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