Can't Fight This Feeling

REO Speedwagon's 'Can't Fight This Feeling' is a power ballad that captures the essence of an emotional journey from friendship to love. The song, released in 1984, became one of the band's most iconic hits, resonating with audiences through its heartfelt lyrics and soaring melodies. The band, known for their rock and pop-rock style, has a knack for crafting songs that explore the complexities of relationships and the human heart.

The lyrics of 'Can't Fight This Feeling' describe the internal struggle of the narrator who is coming to terms with his deepening feelings for a friend. The opening lines set the stage for this internal conflict, as the narrator acknowledges the fear of letting his true feelings show, despite the growing intensity of his emotions. The song speaks to the universal experience of falling in love with someone who was initially just a friend, highlighting the vulnerability and uncertainty that comes with such a transition. The metaphor of the 'candle in the window' serves as a beacon of hope and guidance, symbolizing the person he loves as a source of light in the darkness, drawing him ever closer.

As the song progresses, the narrator reaches a point of realization and acceptance. The chorus, with its powerful declaration of surrender to these feelings, marks a turning point where the narrator decides to stop fighting his emotions and embrace them instead. The imagery of bringing a ship into the shore and throwing away the oars signifies a commitment to this love, a willingness to give up the struggle and let the current of his feelings take him where they may. This song, with its relatable theme and emotional delivery, continues to be a timeless anthem for those who have experienced the transformative power of love.