Meaning of "The Closer I Get To You" by Donny Hathaway

"The Closer I Get To You" by Donny Hathaway is a heartfelt ballad that explores the journey from friendship to love. The lyrics convey the protagonist's inner struggle as they try to convince themselves that their relationship with the person they are growing closer to can only ever be platonic. However, as they spend more time together, the narrator becomes aware of the profound love they feel. The repetition of lines like "The closer I get to you, the more you make me see" emphasizes the emotional transformation taking place within the narrator. It signifies their growing awareness of the depth of their feelings and the gradual erosion of their initial reservations about pursuing a romantic relationship. The use of the phrase "Your love has captured me" conveys the power and intensity of the love the protagonist experiences. It suggests that they have been completely overwhelmed and captivated by the affection shown to them by the person they are falling in love with. The lyrics also express a sense of urgency, with phrases such as "Needing you more and more," emphasizing the narrator's desire to take a chance on love. The song concludes with the idea that true love can defy the constraints of time, as the protagonist believes that they have discovered something special and enduring. Overall, "The Closer I Get To You" showcases the narrator's discovery of deep affection and the revelation that they have crossed the threshold from friendship into romance.