Meaning of "Eli's Comin'" by Laura Nyro

"Eli's Comin'" can be interpreted as a cautionary tale about a toxic and dangerous relationship. The repeated warning to hide one's heart signifies the need to protect oneself from emotional harm as Eli's arrival is associated with a broken heart. The lyrics suggest a sense of inevitability and the inability to escape the impending heartache. The references to walking, Apollo, and being down on one's knees could symbolize a challenging journey and the ultimate submission to a destructive force. The song captures the fear and vulnerability that can accompany a relationship that is doomed from the start, urging listeners to be wary of giving their heart to someone who will inevitably cause pain.