Meaning of "Foreign Affair" by Tina Turner

"Foreign Affair" delves into the complexities of love and relationships. The lyrics paint a picture of the initial excitement of crossing paths with someone who sparks romantic interest. The reference to the south of France in springtime evokes images of a picturesque and enchanting setting, heightening the sense of romance. However, the song warns that love can be deceptive. It presents love as a bittersweet experience, with the line "Love is a piece of cake, and making love is all there is to eat" suggesting that love can seem effortless and delightful, like enjoying a simple pleasure. Yet, the lyric "But it's a heart out of a lamb when you start to feel forever in a kiss" reveals that the intensity of love can lead to vulnerability and potential heartbreak. Love is portrayed as a delicate and risky endeavor, as the line "But you must remember there's no point of refuge" implies that there is no guarantee of safety or protection when it comes to matters of the heart.

The metaphor of filing love under "foreign affairs" adds depth to the understanding of the lyrics. The phrase suggests that love itself is a complex issue to navigate, akin to the intricate world of international relations. Just as foreign affairs can be unpredictable and require careful handling, so too can love. Filing love under this category implies that it is something foreign, unknown, and difficult to understand fully. It conveys the idea that love can be both exciting and uncertain, with outcomes that are beyond our control. The song ultimately warns that investing in love can lead to pain and disappointment, as expressed in the lines "If someone takes a shortcut to your heart" and "And all too soon you're touching for the last time."