Don't You Know I Care
Love's Puzzling Lament: Don't You Know I Care by Duke Ellington
Lyrics
Don't you know I care
Expressing concern about emotional attachment or feelings.
Or don't you care to know?
Questioning the reciprocation of caring or interest.
If you know I care
Confirming that the caring sentiment exists.
How could you hurt me so?
Expressing hurt caused by the actions of the person.
Darling, you are part
Stating the integral role the person plays in the singer's life.
Of every breath I take
Emphasizing the constant presence of the person in the singer's thoughts.
Will you break my heart
Questioning if the person will cause heartbreak or offer relief.
Or give my heart a break?
Asking for a chance to find solace or emotional relief.
I can't figure out what love's all about
Expressing confusion about understanding love.
And where I fit into your scheme
Questioning the role or place in the other person's feelings or life.
Am I wasting time? Please tell me
Seeking clarification about the investment of time in the relationship.
'Cause I'm down to my last dream
Expressing being at a point of desperation or hopelessness.
Won't you please be fair?
Requesting fairness in treatment or decision-making.
Love me or let me go
Choosing between being loved genuinely or being let go.
Don't you know I care
Reiterating the presence and depth of care for the person.
Or don't you care to know?
Questioning the other person's awareness or concern for the singer's emotions.
Comment