Meaning of "I Forgot That Love Existed" by Van Morrison

The lyrics of "I Forgot That Love Existed" delve into the theme of rediscovering the profound impact and significance of love. Initially, the narrator confesses to having forgotten about love, highlighting the state of their troubled mind and continuous heartaches. This may imply a period of emotional desolation or disillusionment. However, there is a turning point in the song when the narrator sees the light and witnesses how everyone around them brings positivity and happiness through love. This realization suggests that love has the power to heal and uplift individuals, serving as a source of solace and revitalization.

The mention of philosophers Socrates and Plato praising love to the skies adds a philosophical layer to the lyrics. It implies that the concept of love has been revered and celebrated throughout history and across different cultures. By referencing these renowned thinkers, the song acknowledges the universality of love as a human experience that transcends time and place. Love becomes a unifying force that all individuals who have loved or attempted to love can relate to.

The final lines of the song offer a contemplative perspective on the effect of love on one's perception of reality. The lyrics propose that if the heart could guide one's thinking and the head could learn to feel, a profound shift in understanding would occur. This implies that love has the potential to provide a deeper comprehension of what is truly real and meaningful in the world. The song suggests that through love, one can see beyond superficialities and grasp the essence of life and existence.

Overall, "I Forgot That Love Existed" celebrates the transformative nature of love, highlighting its ability to bring light, comfort, and a renewed sense of purpose. It emphasizes the universal significance of love and hints at its potential to alter one's perception and understanding of the world.