What Is Love

Janelle Monáe's song "What Is Love" delves into the profound and universal question of what love truly means. Through her soulful and emotive lyrics, Monáe explores the idea that love is incomplete and perhaps meaningless without the presence of a specific person. The song opens with a poignant question, "What is love if it's not with you?" This sets the tone for the entire piece, emphasizing the deep connection and longing the singer feels for their partner. The lyrics suggest that true love is not just a feeling but an experience that is deeply tied to being with the one you love.

The song continues to explore this theme by highlighting the sense of sanity and completeness that comes from being in the arms of a loved one. Monáe sings about waking up every morning thinking about her partner's feelings, indicating a deep emotional bond and a desire for mutual understanding. The repetition of the phrase "What good is love if it's not your love" underscores the idea that love, in its truest form, is unique and irreplaceable. This repetition serves to drive home the point that love is not a generic emotion but a specific connection with a particular person.

Monáe's lyrical exploration is both personal and universal, making it relatable to anyone who has ever questioned the nature of love. The song's simplicity in its questioning and its emotional depth make it a powerful piece that resonates with listeners. By asking what love is without the presence of a loved one, Monáe invites listeners to reflect on their own relationships and the unique qualities that make their love special. The song ultimately suggests that love is an irreplaceable bond that brings sanity, completeness, and profound meaning to life.