Meaning of "Thinking Of You" by Tracy Chapman

The lyrics of "Thinking Of You" delve into the themes of unrequited love, longing, and the inability to let go of someone who is not accessible. The narrator reflects on their past beliefs, comparing them to the harsh reality they now face. They used to believe in things that were uncertain and unproven, much like their belief that the person they long for would eventually reciprocate their feelings. However, they have come to the realization that their desire is fruitless and that the world doesn't work in the way they once thought. The repetition of the line "Stop thinking of you" emphasizes the constant battle the narrator faces to free themselves from their obsession. Throughout the song, the narrator's darkened room serves as a metaphor for their state of mind, which is clouded by the pain and longing they feel. The act of howling at the moon and cursing their own brain highlights the frustration and desperation they experience. Despite their efforts, they are unable to stop thinking about this person, leading them to feel trapped and consumed by their own thoughts.

The lyrics also touch upon the idea that the person they long for is unattainable and out of reach. They use references to Galileo and gravity to illustrate the impossibility of their desires. Just as the world is not shaped as originally believed, the person they desire is not within their grasp. This further reinforces the notion that their longing is unrealistic and ultimately unfulfilling.

Overall, "Thinking Of You" portrays the individual's struggle to let go of a past love, the torment they experience as they constantly think about the person, and the realization that their desires are unattainable. It explores the pain of unrequited love and the difficulty of moving on, as well as the internal battle to stop dwelling on someone who will never be theirs.