Chains, my baby’s got me locked up in chains
And they ain’t the kind that you can see
Whoa, oh, these chains of love got a hold on me, yeah
Chains, well I can’t break away from these chains
Can’t run around, cos I’m not free
Whoa, oh, these chains of love won’t let me be, yeah
I wanna tell you, pretty baby
I think you’re fine
I’d like to love you
But, darling, I’m imprisoned by these…
Chains, my baby’s got me locked up in chains
And they ain’t the kind that you can see
Oh, oh, these chains of love got a hold on me
Please believe me when I tell you
Your lips are sweet
I’d like to kiss them
But I can’t break away from all of these…
Chains, my baby’s got me locked up in chains
And they ain’t the kind that you can see
Whoa, oh, these chains of love got a hold on me, yeah
Chains, chains of love…
Unbreakable Bonds: Exploring the Meaning of “Chains”
“Chains,” performed by The Beatles, delves into the experience of being irresistibly bound by love. The lyrics use the metaphor of physical chains to express an emotional attachment that’s both confining and captivating. The narrator feels “locked up” not by visible restraints, but by the powerful grip of affection, unable to break away or experience true freedom. Despite desiring closeness and intimacy, there’s a sense of helplessness, as love’s “chains” won’t let him be. The song captures the bittersweet paradox of feeling joy and frustration in equal measure, highlighting the inescapable pull of romance.
Song Credits
“Chains” was written by Gerry Goffin and Carole King. The Beatles included their rendition on the 1963 album Please Please Me, released by Parlophone.