What About

Janet Jackson's song 'What About' is a powerful exploration of the emotional turmoil and trauma experienced in an abusive relationship. The song begins with a seemingly romantic scene, where the protagonist and her partner are walking along the beach under a moonlit sky. He expresses his desire to spend his life with her, but this idyllic moment is shattered as she recalls the painful memories of their past. The lyrics starkly contrast the romantic setting with the harsh reality of the abuse she endured, highlighting the complexity of emotions involved in such relationships.

The chorus of the song is a litany of grievances, where the protagonist questions her partner about the times he lied, yelled, and physically abused her. These lines are raw and unfiltered, capturing the anger and hurt that have been suppressed for too long. The repetition of 'What about' serves as a powerful rhetorical device, emphasizing the numerous instances of betrayal and mistreatment. This part of the song is a cathartic release for the protagonist, as she finally voices the pain that has been festering inside her.

As the song progresses, the protagonist reaches a turning point. She acknowledges that she can no longer live in misery and refuses to accept her partner's deceptive justifications for his actions. The final verses depict her inner struggle between her whispering heart and her screaming mind, ultimately leading to a moment of empowerment. She looks her partner straight in the eye and confronts him, signaling her decision to break free from the cycle of abuse. Janet Jackson's 'What About' is not just a song; it's a poignant narrative of reclaiming one's strength and self-worth in the face of adversity.