All These Things

Aaron Neville's song 'All These Things' is a heartfelt ode to the profound emotions and sensations that come with being deeply in love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the physical and emotional connection between two people. The touch of lips and hands, the warmth of a sweet hello, and the fire felt when holding each other close are all described as elements that make the love so special and intense. These sensory details highlight the physical intimacy that is a crucial part of the relationship, making the listener feel the passion and tenderness that Neville sings about.

The song also delves into the emotional dependency that often accompanies deep love. Neville expresses a sense of desperation at the thought of his lover leaving, stating that he would surely die if they were to part. This hyperbolic expression underscores the depth of his feelings and the importance of his partner in his life. The mention of crying when his lover is just ten minutes late further emphasizes his emotional vulnerability and the intensity of his attachment. This vulnerability is a common theme in love songs, but Neville's soulful delivery adds a layer of authenticity and raw emotion.

Throughout the song, Neville repeatedly mentions the warmth and tenderness of his lover's affection, describing it as divine and thrilling. This choice of words elevates the love to a spiritual level, suggesting that it is not just a physical or emotional connection, but something transcendent. The repetition of phrases like 'your love so warm and tender' and 'the thrill is so divine' reinforces the idea that these feelings are not fleeting but are deeply ingrained in his experience of love. The song concludes with a plea for his lover to never leave, encapsulating the fear of loss and the desire for eternal togetherness. This plea, combined with the earlier expressions of love, creates a powerful narrative about the all-encompassing nature of true love.