How's The Heart?

Nightwish's song 'How's The Heart?' is a poignant exploration of human empathy and connection. The lyrics open with vivid imagery of a mother without a child and a stranger who is poor and exiled, setting a tone of sorrow and isolation. The recurring question, 'How’s the heart while it still beats?' serves as a compassionate inquiry into the emotional state of those who are suffering. This question is posed by a 'no-one,' suggesting that empathy and concern can come from anyone, even those who might feel insignificant or overlooked themselves.

The song delves deeper into the theme of hidden sorrow, describing how people often conceal their pain behind a façade. The line 'Sorrow hides well in your shell' captures this sentiment perfectly. The narrator offers a hand of kindness, emphasizing the importance of human connection and support without expecting anything in return. This act of kindness is described as 'without an amen,' indicating that it is given freely and without the need for acknowledgment or reward.

The chorus, with its repeated question 'How’s the heart underneath the silence?' and the invitation to 'come in, the fire’s warm,' symbolizes a safe haven where one can find solace and warmth. The imagery of burning the rope and dancing suggests liberation from the burdens that bind us, encouraging a celebration of life despite its hardships. The song also touches on the cyclical nature of life and the enduring presence of hope, as seen in the lines 'Night will come but not to stay' and 'Fly towards the calm.' Ultimately, 'How's The Heart?' is a call to recognize and address the silent struggles of others, fostering a sense of unity and compassion.