"Plays on heartstrings" is a figurative expression that refers to any action, event, or situation that evokes strong emotions or manipulates someone's emotions in a deliberate or calculated way. This phrase is often used to describe literary or artistic works, speeches, performances, or even real-life events that aim to appeal to people's sentimental or emotional side.
When something "plays on heartstrings," it typically aims to elicit feelings such as empathy, sympathy, compassion, nostalgia, sadness, or happiness. These emotional responses can be stirred up by various methods, including powerful storytelling, sentimental or dramatic music, vivid imagery, relatable characters or situations, or any other technique that connects with the audience on an emotional level.
The phrase "plays on heartstrings" suggests that someone or something is intentionally tugging at the core of people's emotions for a particular purpose, whether it be to gain support, inspire action, provoke tears, fuel connection, or manipulate reactions. However, depending on the context, "plays on heartstrings" can have a positive or negative connotation. It can be seen as a heartfelt expression or a sincere attempt to touch the audience's emotions, but it can also be criticized as emotionally manipulative or insincere if the intention behind it is considered dishonest or exploitative.
