B.J. Thomas - Smoke Gets In Your Eyes Lyrics

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes Video

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes by B.J. Thomas is a classic song that has touched the hearts of many over the years.

I. Introduction to the Song
Smoke Gets In Your Eyes is a popular song that was first written by American composer Jerome Kern and lyricist Otto Harbach in 1933. It was originally featured in the musical Roberta. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including B.J. Thomas, whose rendition became a hit in 1969.

II. Chronological Explanation of the Lyrics
The song starts with the lines, "They asked me how I knew, My true love was true." These lines introduce the theme of love and the speaker's conviction about their love. It conveys a sense of certainty and confidence in the relationship.

The next lines, "I of course replied, Something here inside, Cannot be denied," further emphasize the speaker's belief in the truthfulness of their love. It suggests that there is a deep, internal feeling that confirms the authenticity of their relationship.

The following lines, "They said someday you'll find, All who love are blind," introduce doubt and skepticism from others. It implies that there are people who question the validity of love and believe that love can blind individuals. This creates a contrast between the speaker's unwavering belief and the doubts from others.

The next lines, "When your heart's on fire, You must realize, Smoke gets in your eyes," provide a metaphorical explanation of the title of the song. It suggests that when someone is deeply in love, they may become blinded by their emotions, just like smoke can cloud one's vision. This metaphorical smoke represents the illusions and temporary nature of love.

III. The Meaning and Inspiration behind the Song
The meaning of Smoke Gets In Your Eyes is open to interpretation. It can be seen as a cautionary tale about the transient nature of love and the potential for one's judgment to be clouded by emotions. The song highlights the idea that love can sometimes blind us to the reality of a situation, leading to heartbreak and disappointment.

The inspiration for the song is believed to have come from a real-life experience of songwriter Otto Harbach. It is said that Harbach was attending a party where he witnessed a couple in love. However, he also noticed that there was an underlying sadness in their eyes, as if they were aware that their love might not last forever. This observation sparked the idea for the song and its metaphorical imagery of smoke getting in one's eyes.

IV. Biblical Analysis of the Song
Now, let's critically analyze if Smoke Gets In Your Eyes aligns with biblical principles. The Bible provides guidance on love, relationships, and the importance of discernment.

1. The Transient Nature of Love
The song portrays love as something that can be fleeting and temporary. This aligns with biblical teachings that highlight the importance of discernment and caution when it comes to matters of the heart. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, the apostle Paul describes the characteristics of true love, which include patience, kindness, and perseverance. Love is not portrayed as something that simply fades away but rather endures through trials and challenges.

2. The Danger of Being Blinded by Emotions
The metaphor of smoke getting in your eyes in the song can be seen as a warning about the danger of being blinded by emotions. In the Bible, Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." This verse emphasizes the need for discernment and wisdom in matters of the heart. It cautions against allowing emotions to cloud one's judgment and decision-making.

3. The Importance of Seeking God's Guidance
In any relationship, seeking God's guidance and wisdom is crucial. The Bible encourages believers to trust in the Lord and seek His will in all areas of life, including relationships. Proverbs 3:5-6 states, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." This verse reminds us of the importance of relying on God's wisdom rather than our own limited understanding.

4. The Need for Genuine Love
While the song highlights the transient nature of love, it also emphasizes the speaker's belief in the authenticity of their love. In the Bible, love is portrayed as a selfless and sacrificial act. Jesus taught his followers to love one another as He loved them (John 13:34-35). This kind of love goes beyond fleeting emotions and involves commitment, forgiveness, and putting others' needs before our own.

V. Conclusion
Smoke Gets In Your Eyes is a timeless song that explores the complexities of love and the potential pitfalls of being blinded by emotions. While the song aligns with some biblical principles, it also highlights the need for discernment and guidance from God in matters of the heart. Ultimately, the song serves as a reminder to approach love with wisdom and to seek God's guidance in all aspects of our lives.