What Kind of Love Are You On

Aerosmith's 'What Kind of Love Are You On' delves into the tumultuous and often contradictory nature of romantic relationships. The song opens with a critique of inconsistency, highlighting how actions often contradict words. This theme is underscored by the line, 'You say one thing then you do another,' suggesting a lack of authenticity and reliability. The blame-shifting to one's mother and the metaphor of kicking the dog because you can't get the cat further illustrate the misdirected frustrations and emotional turmoil that can plague relationships.

The chorus, 'I wanna know, what kind of love are you on,' serves as a central question, probing the true nature of the love being experienced. This line encapsulates the confusion and desperation felt when trying to understand a partner's intentions and feelings. The song also touches on the addictive and repetitive nature of certain relationships, likening them to a drug that one can't get enough of, as seen in the lines, 'Tokin' on her lover like a brand new drug' and 'Do the same thing every damn day.' This metaphor suggests a cycle of dependency and dissatisfaction.

Aerosmith's vivid imagery and playful language, such as 'Rockin' in the cradle with a high school vamp' and 'Screamin' and hummin' like an old tube amp,' add a layer of chaotic energy to the song. These lines paint a picture of a wild, unpredictable love that defies conventional norms. The reference to Jack and Jill's story, with a twist of transactional love, further emphasizes the complexities and sometimes transactional nature of relationships. Ultimately, the song captures the essence of love's unpredictability, the highs and lows, and the constant quest for understanding and fulfillment.