“My Heart Will Go On” by James Horner and Will Jennings

It was the winter of 1997, and the surprise hit in movie theaters was “Titanic.” Almost as popular as the movie was the hit song, “My Heart Will Go On.”

The song is basically a love letter from a woman to her dead lover. “My Heart Will Go On” begins:

“Every night in my dreams

I see you, I feel you.

That is how I know you go on.”

These are poignant words because it is not uncommon for people who have lost a loved one to feel the person’s presence, at least some of the time. When I was a child, for instance, one of my babysitters was a senior citizen who was a widow. When we ate, she always set a place for her husband at meals. She often spoke to him as if was sitting across from her. To her, his presence was very real indeed. Although this behavior may seem odd, the woman was, in all other matters, practical and matter-of-fact.

Another lyric is

“Near, far, wherever you are

I believe that the heart does go on.

Once more you open the door

And you’re here in my heart

And my heart will go on and on.”

In this lyric of “My Heart Will Go On” the narrator admits that she has no idea where her love’s spirit is – only that he is somewhere and that their hearts were still connected. It is an interesting concept that nobody truly dies while he or she is loved by another person.

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“My Heart Will Go On” was composed by James Horner. Will Jennings provided the lyrics. Celine Dion recorded the song originally, although many other artists have performed it since.

“My Heart Will Go On” was released in conjunction with the film “Titanic.” The movie tells the story of Rose, a wealthy socialite, and Jack, an itinerant artist. Against all odds, the two of them meet and fall in love aboard the Titanic. When the ship strikes an iceberg and sinks, Rose survives, but Jack does not. “My Heart Will Go On” reflects Rose’s promise to Jack to lead a full and happy life in spite of his death.

The final lyric in “My Heart Will Go On” is,

“You’re here, there’s nothing I fear,

And I know that my heart will go on.

We’ll stay forever this way.

You are safe in my heart

And my heart will go on and on.”

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If a loved one dies, you may feel paralyzed and depressed. You don’t want to do anything but your daily routine, and even that may fall by the wayside. When you feel this way, you may wish to speak with to a counselor, your doctor or a member of the clergy. They may help you to find a way to lead a fulfilling life in spite of your grief. “My Heart Will Go On” can act as an inspiration by showing that it’s possible to both grieve and go on living at the same time.

Towards the end of “Titanic,” the camera flashes on pictures of Rose after the Titanic sinks. She is riding a horse, piloting an airplane and engaging in many other challenging activities. As the title “My Heart Will Go On” suggests, Rose’s heart and life go on in spite of her loss. If you lose a loved one, remember that, though his or her life may be over, yours is not. Like Rose’s, your heart will go on.