(What Is) Love?

Jennifer Lopez's song "(What Is) Love?" delves into the complexities and frustrations of searching for genuine love. The lyrics reveal a deep sense of longing and vulnerability, as Lopez questions the very nature of love and whether she will ever find it. The repetitive and almost pleading refrain of "What is love?" underscores her desperation and confusion. She expresses her weariness with the dating game, having experienced numerous disappointments and heartbreaks. This sentiment is encapsulated in lines like "I've been hurt so many times, I don't have the patience" and "I've tried every age, I'm so tired of the game." The song captures the universal struggle of seeking a meaningful connection in a world full of fleeting and superficial relationships.

Lopez's lyrics also touch on the societal pressures and expectations placed on individuals to find love. She mentions how people have told her to write a love song, suggesting that her previous work may have been perceived as too angry or negative. This reflects a broader cultural narrative that often prioritizes romantic love as a measure of personal fulfillment and success. Despite her frustrations, Lopez remains hopeful, as evidenced by her repeated questioning and her desire for someone to show her what love truly is. This hope is tinged with a sense of urgency and fear of being left behind, as she wonders, "What if I never find and I'm left behind?"

The song's structure, with its catchy "na-na-na" refrains, contrasts with the depth of its lyrical content. This juxtaposition highlights the tension between the simplicity of the musical arrangement and the complexity of the emotions being expressed. Lopez's vocal delivery adds another layer of sincerity and earnestness, making the listener feel her emotional journey. "(What Is) Love?" is a poignant exploration of the human desire for connection and the challenges that come with it, resonating with anyone who has ever questioned the true meaning of love.