Speak The Word Lyrics

Lyric discussion by edza 

Cover art for Speak The Word lyrics by Tracy Chapman

"Unsettled hearts Promise what they can't deliver" because they are not at peace/ in a tranquil state to make sound judgement or to deliver promises because they are lacking the composure and sound mind that love provides. therefore to block all these unsettling thoughts and inhibitions, "wine" is deemed necessary. the symbolism in the air is that it is "cold" therefore metaphorically speaking, it serves to "numb" those thoughts, the unsettling ones. "grey matter" could refer to the memory warehouse in the brain and these thoughts are the cause of the "trembling flesh". thus the state that "preceeds bliss", that provides a safety zone before one wonders down this path of bliss and oblivion is a state that can be achieved through "love". the repetetive utterances of the word "love" by Tracy are also indicative of how she wishes to emphasize her point, that in any situation, things can always be seen from a better light and good can be achieved if the element of love is present. Love Conquers all.