Meaning of "I'm on Fire" by Heather Nova

The meaning behind the lyrics of "I'm on Fire" delves into the theme of unrequited love and the longing for a past connection. The song seems to be written from the perspective of someone who is still stuck in the memories and emotions of a previous relationship. The protagonist reaches out to a person, presumably a younger male, who might remind them of their former lover. They inquire about the status of their past lover, wondering if they are being treated as well as they once were.

The repeated phrase "I'm on fire" symbolizes the intense passion and desire the protagonist feels for their former lover. However, this desire is ultimately unfulfilled and unrequited, as they express their inability to cool their own desires. The use of fire as a metaphor reinforces the notion of burning alive in the absence of the person they long for.

The lyric "Sometimes it's like someone took a knife, baby, edgy and dull
And put a six-inch valley through the middle of my soul" portrays the deep emotional pain that the protagonist experiences. The metaphorical knife represents the loss and heartbreak they feel, while the six-inch valley represents the depth of their sorrow. This imagery paints a vivid picture of the profound impact the absence of their past lover has had on their well-being.

The line "At night I wake up with the sheets soaking wet and a freight train running through the middle of my head" further emphasizes the emotional turmoil the protagonist endures. The restless nights and overwhelming thoughts symbolize the inability to escape from the grip of memories and longing. It showcases the all-consuming nature of the protagonist's emotions, which haunt them even in their dreams.

Overall, the lyrics of "I'm on Fire" convey the desperate longing for a lost love and the emotional pain that accompanies it. The agonizing desire and inability to move on are central themes in this song, highlighting the complicated nature of human emotions and the lasting impact of significant relationships.