Meaning of "Ruler Of My Heart" by Irma Thomas

The lyrics of "Ruler Of My Heart" delve into themes of love, longing, and the desire for emotional fulfillment. The narrator addresses the person they love as the ruler of their heart and the father of their soul, emphasizing the depth of their connection. They express their anguish over the absence of this person, declaring that they anxiously wait for their return. The use of the word "patiencely" instead of "patiently" adds a sense of yearning and eagerness, highlighting the intensity of their longing.

The chorus reflects the narrator's emotional state, as they declare that the going gets rough and they've had enough. This could suggest that the time spent apart has been challenging and emotionally draining for the narrator. They plead for the person to come back, expressing their desire for the pain to end and for the relationship to be restored.

The narrator also longs for a sense of power and happiness. They yearn to be made a queen again, symbolizing the need to regain their sense of self-worth and emotional fulfillment. The repeated plea to "hear my cries" signifies the depth of their emotional turmoil and the longing for their loved one to understand and acknowledge their pain.

Overall, "Ruler Of My Heart" portrays a complex emotional landscape filled with longing, pain, and a deep desire for reconciliation and emotional fulfillment. The lyrics effectively convey the narrator's vulnerability and their desperate hope for the return of their loved one.