Meaning of "Empty Heart" by Grace Potter

The lyrics of "Empty Heart" by Grace Potter explore the dynamic between two individuals in a relationship where one person is distant and emotionally closed off. The narrator is deeply affected by this emotional unavailability and longs for a deeper connection with their partner. The repetition of the line "I cry when you do, I cry when you don't" highlights the narrator's confusion and frustration in not being able to fully understand their partner's emotions and intentions.

The song suggests that the partner's emotional detachment is a result of past hurts, as indicated by the line "somebody broke you back in the day." This past trauma has left them with an empty heart, symbolized by the "big old hole in the middle of you." Despite the partner's reluctance to open up, the narrator remains undeterred and expresses a genuine desire to fill their empty heart with love and understanding.

The lyrics also touch upon the theme of broken promises, as both the narrator and their partner have experienced pain from unfulfilled or broken commitments. The line "Yeah we all make promises we can't keep" suggests a sense of shared vulnerability and the recognition that even the most heartfelt promises can be flimsy and easily shattered.

Overall, "Empty Heart" explores the complexity of relationships and the challenge of trying to connect with someone who carries previous emotional baggage. It portrays the narrator's yearning to break through their partner's walls and bring healing to their wounded heart. The lyrics evoke a sense of empathy and desire for deeper emotional connection, while also acknowledging the difficulties and frustrations that can arise when one person's heart feels empty.