Song meaning of Heartless by Kanye West

The song "Heartless" by Kanye West tells the story of a man who has been betrayed and hurt by a woman he once loved. The lyrics convey a sense of heartbreak, bitterness, and resentment towards this woman who has left him feeling empty and soulless.

In the chorus, the narrator hears people talking about the "coldest story ever told," referring to his own experience of losing his soul to this heartless woman. He questions how she could be so heartless, highlighting the emotional pain she has caused him.

In the first verse, the narrator reflects on the past and acknowledges the ups and downs they went through. He mentions that there are still secrets she hasn't shared with him, but he also takes responsibility for his own mistakes. However, he believes that she is trying to manipulate him by pretending not to know him anymore. Despite having friends, the narrator still feels isolated and lonely without her.

The second verse reveals the narrator's confusion and frustration as he questions why she behaves the way she does. He describes feeling like Dr. Evil, as she brings out a side of him he didn't know existed. The narrator admits that they had agreed not to speak, yet they find themselves talking late at night. He also mentions her hot and cold behavior and his determination to not let it affect his happiness.

The bridge signifies a desire to move on from the toxic relationship, to find something new and leave the negative emotions behind. The narrator recognizes that others may not understand their relationship, and he anticipates continued animosity between them as enemies. He acknowledges that leaving may seem wrong, but he is choosing to prioritize his own well-being.

The repetition of the chorus and the outro emphasizes the weight and impact of the woman's actions on the narrator's soul, highlighting the heartlessness she has exhibited. Overall, the song conveys the pain, confusion, and determination to move on after experiencing betrayal and heartbreak.