Do What You Do

Jermaine Jackson's song "Do What You Do" is a poignant exploration of love lost and the lingering pain that follows. The lyrics reflect a deep sense of nostalgia and longing for a past relationship that once brought immense joy and fulfillment. Jackson's repeated plea, "Why don't you do what you do when you did what you did to me?" underscores his yearning for the return of the love and passion that once defined his relationship. This refrain highlights the emotional void left by the departure of his lover and his desperate desire to recapture those moments of happiness.

The song delves into the confusion and heartache that often accompany the end of a meaningful relationship. Jackson questions what went wrong, pondering how something that felt so right could have gone so awry. The lines, "Tell me something I didn't do / Why did someone else have to pull you through?" suggest feelings of betrayal and bewilderment, as he grapples with the idea that someone else may have taken his place. This sense of loss is further emphasized by the metaphor of a thief in the night, symbolizing the sudden and unexpected nature of his lover's departure.

Culturally, the song taps into universal themes of love, loss, and the quest for closure. Jackson's soulful delivery and the emotive quality of the lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of a broken relationship. The song's nostalgic references to shared moments, such as dancing and making love, serve to remind listeners of the fleeting nature of happiness and the enduring impact of lost love. Through "Do What You Do," Jermaine Jackson captures the essence of heartache and the human desire to hold onto cherished memories, even as they slip away.