Smokey Robinson's 'Gasms' is a song that explores the intoxicating effects of a profound romantic attraction, with 'gasms' being a playful shortening of the word 'orgasms.' The song describes various types of sensory pleasures—such as seeing and hearing a loved one—that feel almost overwhelmingly pleasurable. Each verse focuses on a different sense ('eyegasms' and 'eargasms'), celebrating the elation and satisfaction derived from that sensorial experience in the same way as a physical orgasm can be enjoyed.
The song commences with a visual connection, coining the term 'eyegasms' to illustrate the ecstasy Smokey Robinson feels when gazing at his beloved. It captures the instant rush of joy, almost like an adrenaline hit, when the eyes meet something—or someone—truly pleasing. This segment of the journey is replete with hopeful anticipation; the future is seen through rose-tinted glasses where everything is vibrant and filled with the promise of eternal love.
As we advance to the aural dimension with 'eargasms,' the journey turns more intimate. Robinson's lover's voice triggers more than just auditory enjoyment—it's a sonic caress that sends shivers down the spine, painting a portrait of love that's not only seen but heard. The auditory pleasure foretells deep connection and communication, suggesting a bond that transcends mere words.
In the refrain, he contemplates 'mind gasms,' a metaphysical form of pleasure that underscores the profound mental and emotional connection he shares with his partner. It accentuates the unspoken understanding and reflects on how thoughts alone can trigger pleasure. This indicates a mature phase of the emotional journey, where love is experienced with a depth that surpasses the physical and enters the spiritual realm.
The song culminates with a sense of continuous longing and satisfaction—there's a jubilant celebration of the feelings that his partner incites within him. The repetition of 'gasms' throughout the chorus underscores the pervasive and relentless presence of this joy. It's an evergreen cycle of pleasure, where every memory, sound, and glimpse is a pathway back to that ecstatic state.
"Eyegasms"
Refers to the overwhelming pleasure Smokey Robinson feels when looking at his loved one, a play on the sensory delight similar to an orgasm.
"When I hear your voice, my eardrums start to quiver"
Describes the physical and emotional reaction to hearing his partner speak, likening the auditory experience to physical touch or sensation.
"Every kind of gasm ever known"
Implies the wide spectrum of pleasures that his partner brings to him, transcending traditional romantic experiences.
"And a few I think are only mine alone"
Suggests a unique, personal aspect to the love and pleasure he feels, something special that only he experiences with his partner.