Meaning of "Passion" by Rod Stewart

The lyrics of "Passion" by Rod Stewart delve into the universal theme of love and desire. The song portrays a sense of urgency and restlessness, as the narrator describes somebody somewhere in the heat of the night, looking dangerous and running out of patience. This sets the tone for the search for passion that permeates throughout the song. The lyrics suggest that in the city, there is a lack of compassion and a lot of pretending. Everyone is searching for something, seeking passion in the bars, cafes, streets, and alleys. The longing for passion is depicted as an innate human need, as prevalent in major cities like New York, Moscow, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Paris, and Bangkok. However, the lyrics also highlight that many people lack passion, as they hear it in the radio, read it in the papers, hear it in the churches, and see it in the school yards. This suggests that while passion exists, it is not fully embraced or acknowledged.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the exhilaration and danger that comes with passion, stating that once in love, you're never out of danger. The lyrics mention spending one hot night with a stranger, reflecting the intensity and thrill of passion. The desire for human connection is evident as the narrator expresses the need for somebody to hold on to. The lyrics also touch on the concept of loneliness, describing someone alone in their bed at night, feeling that something isn't right. This further emphasizes the importance of finding and experiencing passion in order to feel complete and fulfilled.

The extended version of the song expands on the theme of passion, emphasizing the insatiable nature of it and the willingness to do anything for it. The lyrics state that even the president and everybody the narrator knows needs passion, yet many are scared of it and won't admit their need for it. The song concludes with a plea to think about passion and highlights its necessity in life.

Overall, "Passion" by Rod Stewart explores the universal search for love, desire, and fulfillment. It underscores the excitement, risks, and importance of passion in relationships and in life. The lyrics reveal a longing for deeper connections and an acknowledgment of the human need for passion.