I’ve always read these lyrics as someone opening their heart to a new person in their life, almost like a warning, or some sort of self-sabotage. “Hey, you seem really cool and I’m falling in love with you even though no one I’ve been in love with before has stuck around too long and you’ll probably be gone soon, too.”*
I’m realizing as I write this that it could just as easily be sung to someone who’s feeling like their (not new) partner is on their way to peace-ing out.
Either way, the concept of giving your heart to someone with full knowledge that they can do whatever they want with it–being completely vulnerable and open to someone– is fucking brave. And scary as shit. Billy nails it.
*boy have I been there.