Carrie Ann

Carrie Ann
Written by Dennis DeYoung
Lead Vocals by Dennis DeYoung

Time stands still, baby, when I touch you
I can't believe the way I'm feelin'
Please don't speak, it's taken me all this time
To find the strength just to say

That I never knew what love was til I met you
Never thought that I could act this way
But I'm still afraid to show how much I need you
Tell me, what makes a man like me this way

Carrie Ann, don't ask me why
Baby I work so hard just to hide my emotions
Carrie Ann, words can't explain
The way that I feel in my heart

Lovers' hearts never quite beat in time
They never find that perfect rhythm
You know I let you down many times
But this I promise to you

That I'll never lead you through doors of deception
I won't bind you to a chain of lies
Though I know my love for you won't be perfection
What I give to you will last all time

Carrie Ann, don't ask me why
Baby I work so hard just to hide my emotions
Carrie Ann, my words can't explain
The way that I feel in my heart

Take a little time to realize
I'll love you faithfully
Just take a little time and you'll see
That baby it's me

Carrie Ann, don't ask me why
Baby I work so hard just to hide my emotions
Carrie Ann, my words can't explain
The way that I feel in my heart

Interpretation

Saying "I love you" can be difficult when you understand what the words really mean--a lifetime of  devotion.  Men often have a hard time understanding or even expressing their emotions, and they can be insecure about and even afraid of letting themselves be vulnerable.

Nobody is perfect, and even a true love will make mistakes.  However, I will promise to remain faithful and to always be honest with you. Give me a chance and you will see.

Carrie Ann is the name of Dennis DeYoung's daughter, so the song was presumably named in tribute.  It may be an allegorical way of reflecting on his own life experience and passing along wise insight to his daughter.