If

David Gates' song 'If' is a poignant exploration of deep, unwavering love and devotion. The lyrics are rich with metaphors that convey the intensity and depth of the narrator's feelings. The opening line, 'If a picture paints a thousand words, then why can't I paint you?' suggests that no matter how many words or images are used, they can never fully capture the essence of the person he loves. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, emphasizing the ineffable nature of true love.

The song continues with the metaphor of a face launching a thousand ships, a reference to Helen of Troy, to illustrate the beloved's unparalleled beauty and significance. The narrator feels lost without this person, indicating that they are his anchor and the center of his world. The lines 'And when, my love, for life is running dry, You come, and pour, yourself, on me' depict the beloved as a source of rejuvenation and strength, highlighting the nurturing and sustaining power of their love.

In the final verses, Gates imagines apocalyptic scenarios, such as the world stopping its rotation and the stars going out one by one. Even in these extreme circumstances, the narrator's commitment remains unshaken, expressing a desire to spend every moment with his beloved, even at the end of the world. This ultimate declaration of love underscores the timeless and boundless nature of his devotion, suggesting that their love transcends all earthly limitations and will endure beyond the end of time.