Meaning of "Fidelity" by Regina Spektor

"Fidelity" delves into the internal struggle that arises from a fear of vulnerability and a desire to protect oneself from heartbreak. The narrator confesses to never having loved anyone fully, always keeping a part of themselves reserved. This reflects their hesitance to fully invest in relationships due to a fear of getting hurt. By protecting their heart truly, they have become lost in the sounds that echo in their mind, representing the chaotic thoughts and conflicting emotions they grapple with. The repetition of "And it breaks my heart" emphasizes the pain love brings, highlighting the paradox of longing for connection while also fearing its consequences.

The song also contemplates the hypothetical scenario of never meeting or falling in love with the person they address. While the narrator ponders the idea that their heart would have been spared from breaking, they also acknowledge that without that experience, they would have missed out on the sweetness and softness of the kisses shared. This juxtaposition suggests that even though love can lead to heartbreak, it also brings moments of profound joy and intimacy that make the risk worthwhile.

The lyrics "Just to break my fall" allude to using love songs and relationships as a means to avoid personal downfall or emotional freefall. The protagonist appears to use romantic connections as a way to distract themselves from their own internal struggles or feelings of emptiness. However, they also recognize that this reliance on others to "break" their fall is not a sustainable solution and ultimately leaves them feeling vulnerable as they face the inevitable heartbreak.

Overall, "Fidelity" delivers a poignant message about the complexities of love and the internal battles that accompany the fear of vulnerability. It portrays the conflicting desires for emotional connections while also protecting oneself from pain, ultimately highlighting the inherent risks and rewards of love.