call it love

In 'call it love,' eli. delves into the complexities and emotional turmoil of a relationship that lacks genuine love and connection. The song opens with the narrator observing their partner's unhappiness, contrasting it with a previous relationship where their partner seemed genuinely content. This sets the stage for a narrative of inadequacy and longing, as the narrator admits they cannot replicate the love and happiness their partner once experienced. The repeated refrain 'I'm not happy anymore' underscores a mutual dissatisfaction that permeates the relationship.

The chorus highlights the superficial nature of their interactions, where physical intimacy and temporary reconciliations replace genuine emotional connection. The lines 'We make out and make up, get drunk and just fuck, no love, no love' starkly illustrate a cycle of physical encounters devoid of true affection. Despite this, both parties continue to label their actions as 'love,' creating a facade that masks their deeper issues. This repetition emphasizes the hollow nature of their relationship, where the term 'love' is used loosely and without its true essence.

The song also touches on themes of insecurity and the futile attempts to buy or earn love. The narrator's desire to be adored and their efforts to provide materially ('Empty my pockets, spillin' my wallet') reflect a misunderstanding of what love truly requires. The acknowledgment that 'love can't be bought' and 'love can't be basic' reveals a deeper awareness of the inadequacies in their approach. Ultimately, 'call it love' is a poignant exploration of the dissonance between physical intimacy and emotional fulfillment, highlighting the struggles of maintaining a relationship built on shaky foundations.