Temperature
Aerosmith
The Fever of Love: Exploring Aerosmith's 'Temperature'
Aerosmith's song 'Temperature' is a fiery ode to the intense emotions and physical sensations that come with passionate love. The lyrics vividly describe the overwhelming heat and feverish excitement that the narrator experiences when he is with his lover. The repeated references to high temperatures, such as '101 when we... kiss and dance' and '105 when I hold her... in my arms,' serve as metaphors for the burning desire and fervent passion that the narrator feels. This use of temperature as a metaphor for love is a classic trope in rock music, emphasizing the physical and emotional intensity of romantic relationships.
The song's structure, with its repetitive chorus and escalating temperature references, mirrors the rising intensity of the narrator's feelings. The lines '103... 4 and 5... it get to hot to stay alive' suggest that the passion is almost too much to handle, pushing the boundaries of what is bearable. This hyperbolic expression of love and desire is characteristic of Aerosmith's style, known for its raw energy and unabashed celebration of sensuality.
Culturally, 'Temperature' fits within the broader context of rock music's exploration of love and desire. Aerosmith, a band that emerged in the 1970s, has always been known for their gritty, blues-influenced rock sound and their lyrics that often delve into themes of love, lust, and the highs and lows of relationships. 'Temperature' continues this tradition, offering a vivid and visceral portrayal of the feverish highs of romantic passion. The song's energetic tempo and driving beat further amplify the sense of urgency and intensity, making it a quintessential rock anthem about the heat of love.