Meaning of "I Had My Heart Set On You" by Emmylou Harris

The lyrics of "I Had My Heart Set On You" by Emmylou Harris delve into the aftermath of a failed relationship, focusing on the emotions tied to unfulfilled promises and shattered dreams. The narrator reflects on their wedding day, questioning if their partner had been truthful about their commitment, only to later say goodbye. Despite the passage of time, the narrator still holds onto the memories and love they had for their partner, unable to move on completely. The repetition of "I had my heart set on you" emphasizes the profound impact this person had on the narrator's life, highlighting their inability to fully let go. The lyrics capture the pain of unrequited love, the struggle to come to terms with a broken heart, and the enduring sentimentality attached to a past romance that never lived up to its potential.