Meaning of "Piece Of My Heart" by Lionel Richie

The lyrics of "Piece Of My Heart" by Lionel Richie delve into the complexities of love, heartbreak, and vulnerability. The speaker expresses disbelief at finding love when it was not part of their plan, highlighting the unexpected nature of falling for someone. Despite past hurts and a promise to guard their heart, they find themselves giving a piece of it to the person they love. This vulnerability is contrasted with the strength the speaker had to protect their feelings and fight for freedom. The mention of love being a stranger and cruel, making the speaker feel like a fool, underscores the pain and lessons learned from past relationships. However, the arrival of this new love interest changes everything, making the speaker question the origin of this love and the clarity of its message. The realization that this love is genuine and transformative leads the speaker to want to commit to a lifetime together. Overall, the lyrics depict a journey from protecting oneself against love to embracing it wholeheartedly, showcasing the power of love to heal and change perceptions.