Love More

Bon Iver's 'Love More' delves into the complexities of love and the transformative power it holds, even in the face of adversity. The song opens with a vivid metaphor of being 'chained to the wall,' suggesting a sense of entrapment and confinement within a relationship. This imagery is powerful, evoking feelings of helplessness and subjugation. The line 'chained me like a dog in our room' further intensifies this sense of captivity, indicating a relationship dynamic that is far from healthy. Despite these dark undertones, the protagonist initially believes that everything is fine, highlighting the often-blinding nature of love.

As the song progresses, the narrative shifts to a more reflective tone. The protagonist recalls a time when they were younger and had 'nothing to spend but time on you.' This line suggests a period of innocence and devotion, where time was the only currency they had. Despite the hardships and the emotional turmoil described earlier, this period of their life made them 'love more.' The repetition of 'it made me love' emphasizes the transformative impact of these experiences, suggesting that love, even when fraught with difficulties, has the power to deepen and grow.

The final verse introduces a new character, a 'she' who 'took the time to believe in what she said.' This belief and the words she spoke had a profound impact on the protagonist, making them 'love more.' The repetition of this phrase underscores the song's central theme: love's ability to endure and even flourish through trials and tribulations. Bon Iver masterfully captures the duality of love—its capacity to both confine and liberate, to cause pain and to heal. The song ultimately serves as a testament to love's enduring power and its ability to transform us in unexpected ways.