Gwen Stefani Swallow My Tears Lyrics

"Swallow My Tears"

The past keeps chasin' me around

I thought I lost it, but then it found me

Like it always does

Dragging me back to who I was

And I'm runnin', I'm runnin'

But not from you

I stay one step ahead of the pain

I keep an umbrella when there's no rain

I got my guard up when there's no war

Don't know what I'm fighting for

Give me a second, I need to swallow my tears

I promise, I promise, I promise I want you here

I want you here

But first let me swallow my tears

Lookin' for God, I'm prayin', kneelin'

Had to go and do some healin'

Sorry I was ghostin' you (Ghostin' you)

But what was I supposed to do?

I'm runnin', I'm runnin'

But not from you

I stay one step ahead of the pain

I keep an umbrella when there's no rain

I got my guard up when there's no war

Don't know what I'm fighting for

Give me a second, I need to swallow my tears

I promise, I promise, I promise I want you here

I want you here

Oh, give me a second, I need to swallow my tears

I promise, I promise, I promise I want you here (I want you here)

I want you here (I need you here)

I want you here (I want you here)

I want you here (I need you here)

I promise, I promise, I promise

I promise, I promise, I promise

Meaning

"Swallow My Tears" by Gwen Stefani explores the emotional turmoil of heartbreak and the internal struggle of suppressing grief. The lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability, as Stefani sings about trying to hold back tears and move on after a painful experience, likely tied to a failed relationship.

1. Emotional Suppression

   • The phrase "swallow my tears" symbolizes the act of holding back sadness and pain, something many people experience when faced with heartache. It's about trying to stay strong and not let emotions take over.

2. Resilience and Healing

   • Despite the sadness in the song, there's an underlying theme of resilience. It reflects the process of healing, even when it's difficult to accept or express the pain.

3. Universal Struggle

   • The song's theme resonates with anyone who has struggled with emotional pain and the act of pushing forward, even when it feels overwhelming. It's a deeply relatable message about overcoming personal challenges.

4. Introspection and Growth

   • Stefani's lyrics also suggest a journey of self-reflection and growth. While the tears represent sadness, "swallowing" them could signify the inner strength it takes to rise above sorrow.

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Trivia: "Swallow My Tears" by Gwen Stefani

1. Album Context:
   "Swallow My Tears" is featured on Gwen Stefani's third solo studio album, This Is What the Truth Feels Like (2016). The album reflects themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth, drawing from Stefani's own experiences.

2. Emotional Depth:
   The song is one of the most emotionally intense tracks on the album, showcasing Gwen's vulnerability as she sings about suppressing her emotions in the wake of a difficult breakup.

3. Songwriting:
   Gwen Stefani co-wrote "Swallow My Tears" with producers and songwriters including Justin Tranter and Julia Michaels, who also contributed to other hits on the album.

4. Relatability:
   The song's theme of holding back tears resonates with listeners who have experienced heartbreak, making it a standout track for its raw emotional honesty.

5. Critical Reception:
   Critics praised the song for its vulnerability and Stefani’s ability to convey deep personal emotions while maintaining her distinct pop style.

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