Meaning of "That Old Black Magic" by Roberta Gambarini

The lyrics of "That Old Black Magic" speak to the intoxicating nature of love and desire. The song describes the feeling of being completely enchanted and under the spell of someone's charm. The imagery of icy fingers up and down the spine, an elevator ride, and being caught in a tide all contribute to the sense of being swept away by intense emotions. Despite knowing that they should stay away, the protagonist finds themselves unable to resist the allure of the person they desire, as if under a magical influence. The repeated references to flames and kisses highlight the intense passion and longing that the protagonist feels. Ultimately, the lyrics convey a sense of being helpless in the face of love's irresistible power. The closing lines, with references to "old black magic called love," suggest that love itself is a mystical force that can ensnare and captivate us.