Meaning of "Honest Emotion" by Michael McDonald

The lyrics of "Honest Emotion" delve into the struggle of opening oneself up to genuine emotions and vulnerability in relationships. The narrator acknowledges that they have kept themselves safe and isolated behind metaphorical walls, preventing them from experiencing true love and connection. They compare their emotional state to a skater who navigates the surface of love without delving deeper, illustrating a fear of fully immersing themselves in the complexities of relationships. The mention of "wings on my shoulders" and "shadows in my heart" alludes to overlooked potential and hidden emotions, suggesting that the narrator has overlooked their own capabilities and let their inner turmoil go unaddressed.

The repeated chorus of "honest emotion, so hard to come by" highlights the rarity of authentic emotional experiences and the challenges of confronting one's true feelings. The narrator questions whether they would even recognize genuine emotion if it were to enter their life, indicating a sense of disconnection and unfamiliarity with vulnerability. Overall, "Honest Emotion" poignantly captures the internal struggle of balancing self-protection with the desire for deep emotional connection, ultimately questioning the narrator's own ability to engage authentically with their emotions and others.