What Do You Do?
Jess Glynne
The Struggle of Holding On: Jess Glynne's 'What Do You Do?'
Jess Glynne's song 'What Do You Do?' delves into the emotional turmoil of being trapped in a toxic relationship. The lyrics poignantly capture the internal conflict of knowing that the relationship is harmful yet feeling an irresistible pull to stay. Glynne's voice, filled with both vulnerability and strength, brings to life the struggle of wanting to break free but being unable to muster the strength to say goodbye. The repeated mistakes and the cycle of breaking up and getting back together highlight the addictive nature of such relationships, likening it to a drug that one can't quit despite knowing its detrimental effects.
The chorus, with its haunting question, 'What do you do when love is not enough?' encapsulates the core dilemma of the song. It speaks to the universal experience of realizing that love alone cannot sustain a relationship when other elements, such as safety and mutual respect, are missing. The metaphor of love hitting 'like a drug' underscores the intensity and the destructive allure of the relationship, making it clear that the emotional highs and lows are as potent and as damaging as substance addiction.
Glynne's lyrics also touch on the theme of self-awareness and the difficulty of change. The acknowledgment of the relationship's toxicity and the wish to change, juxtaposed with the repeated falling into the same mistakes, paints a picture of a person caught in a cycle they can't escape. The song's emotional depth is further amplified by the plea for 'one more kiss,' even when knowing it's not right, illustrating the heart-wrenching difficulty of letting go. This song resonates with anyone who has ever been in a similar situation, making it a powerful anthem for those grappling with the complexities of love and self-worth.