Meaning of "Wuthering Heights" by Pat Benatar
"Wuthering Heights" takes inspiration from the classic novel by Emily Brontë and explores the theme of intense and consuming love. The lyrics depict a complex relationship filled with passion, jealousy, and a sense of longing. The wiley, windy moors symbolize the volatile nature of their connection, while their constant rolling and falling in the green suggests a series of ups and downs. Cathy acknowledges her own jealousy while likening it to Heathcliff's temper, suggesting a mutual understanding of their flaws. The line "How could you leave me, when I needed to possess you" hints at a possessive and dependent love, where Cathy desires to have control over Heathcliff's existence. The mention of "bad dreams in the night" and being told she will lose the fight indicates the turbulent nature of their relationship, with constant doubts and uncertainty.
As the song progresses, Cathy yearns to return to Heathcliff's side, emphasizing her loneliness and longing. She refers to him as her "only master," implying a submissive and intense devotion. The repetitive use of "Wuthering Heights" and the line "Heathcliff, it's me, I'm Cathy, I've come home" symbolizes the longing to find solace and belonging in their tumultuous love, where the heights represent the emotional peaks and depths they experience. Cathy's pleading to be let in through the window highlights her vulnerability and desperation. The final repetition of "Heathcliff, it's me, I'm Cathy, I've come home" reinforces her insistence and desire to be reunited, even if it means enduring the coldness of their relationship once more.
Overall, "Wuthering Heights" explores the themes of intense love, longing, and the complexities of human relationships. It delves into the passionate and destructive nature of a relationship that is fueled by strong emotions and a need for possession. By referencing the characters of Cathy and Heathcliff from Emily Brontë's novel, the song adds depth and layers to its meaning, giving it a sense of literary and emotional resonance.
