Solitaire

Neil Sedaka's song 'Solitaire' delves into the profound loneliness and isolation experienced by a man who has lost his love due to his own indifference. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a solitary figure who, despite having a heart capable of caring, allowed it to wither away in silence. This man's emotional detachment and inability to share his feelings ultimately led to the demise of his relationship, leaving him to navigate life alone.

The recurring metaphor of solitaire, a card game typically played alone, serves as a powerful symbol of the man's isolation. The game represents his solitary existence, where every path he takes leads him further into despair. While life continues around him, he remains trapped in his own world, playing a game that only reinforces his loneliness. The lyrics suggest that he is stuck in a cycle of dealing and losing, with each game ending in disappointment and starting anew, mirroring his repetitive and unfulfilling life.

The imagery of the 'king of hearts' being 'well concealed' adds another layer to the song's meaning. It implies that the man hides his true emotions and desires, perhaps out of fear or resignation. Despite his attempts to command the hand he's playing, he remains a prisoner of his own making, unable to break free from his self-imposed solitude. The song's melancholic tone and poignant lyrics capture the essence of a man who has become a spectator in his own life, watching as hope fades and opportunities slip away, all while he continues to play his lonely game of solitaire.