April 1, 1998 Album: Dizzy Up the Girl

Iris

The Goo Goo Dolls

About Iris

Read More Collapse “Iris” was written by John Rzeznik for the 1998 film City of Angels and later included on the Goo Goo Dolls’ album Dizzy Up the Girl.

The song expresses the pain and beauty of loving someone deeply, even without being fully understood or seen.

Its soaring melody, mandolin-driven arrangement, and aching lyrics have made it a lasting classic in alternative rock and romantic ballads.

"Iris" became one of the most requested songs on radio and is still considered the band’s signature hit.

Iris Lyrics

[Verse 1]

And I'd give up forever to touch you

'Cause I know that you feel me somehow

You're the closest to heaven that I'll ever be

And I don't wanna go home right now

And all I could taste is this moment

And all I can breathe is your life

And sooner or later, it's over

I just don't wanna miss you tonight

[Chorus]

And I don't want the world to see me

'Cause I don't think that they'd understand

When everything's made to be broken

I just want you to know who I am

[Instrumental Break]

[Verse 2]

And you can't fight the tears that ain't comin'

Or the moment of truth in your lies

When everything feels like the movies

Yeah, you bleed just to know you're alive

[Chorus]

And I don't want the world to see me

'Cause I don't think that they'd understand

When everything's made to be broken

I just want you to know who I am

[Instrumental Break]

[Chorus]

And I don't want the world to see me

'Cause I don't think that they'd understand

When everything's made to be broken

I just want you to know who I am

And I don't want the world to see me

'Cause I don't think that they'd understand

When everything's made to be broken

I just want you to know who I am

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Lyric Video of Iris by The Goo Goo Dolls

Line-by-Line Breakdown of Iris Lyrics

The song begins with introspective vulnerability, as the narrator feels invisible and isolated. As the lyrics progress, the emotional urgency builds, especially in the lines: “And I'd give up forever to touch you…” The chorus reveals overwhelming desire and the fear of losing something that feels real. By the end, the lyrics express a readiness to be truly seen and felt — even at great emotional cost.

Vocal Parts in the Iris Lyrics

John Rzeznik leads the vocals with a raspy, emotive tone that captures longing and fragility.
The verse sections are relatively soft, building to more dynamic choruses where he belts with powerful conviction.
Instrumentally, the song uses acoustic guitar, mandolin, and strings to build texture and emotion.
The track maintains a consistent build throughout, climaxing with the repeated chorus and extended outro.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning of “Iris”?

It’s about loving someone so deeply that you’re willing to risk everything to be seen and understood by them.

Why is it called “Iris”?

The title was inspired by a country singer named Iris DeMent, whose name Rzeznik saw in a magazine while writing the song.

Was “Iris” written for a movie?

Yes, it was originally written for City of Angels (1998), starring Nicolas Cage and Meg Ryan.

When was “Iris” released?

It was released in April 1998 and later included on the album Dizzy Up the Girl.

What makes “Iris” so iconic?

Its emotional rawness, poetic lyrics, and unforgettable melody helped it become one of the most beloved rock ballads of the late '90s.