The Feeling (feat. Halsey)
Justin Bieber
Dissecting the Dilemma of Love and Illusion in 'The Feeling'
Justin Bieber's 'The Feeling,' featuring Halsey, delves into the complexities of distinguishing genuine love from the intoxicating rush of emotions that accompany a new relationship. The lyrics express a sense of confusion and introspection as the protagonist questions the authenticity of their feelings. The repeated line 'Am I in love with you? Or am I in love with the feeling?' encapsulates the central theme of the song, highlighting the struggle to discern whether the connection with the partner is profound or merely a superficial infatuation.
The song uses vivid imagery, such as 'Sugar on your lips, it's hard to kill / Jagged like a pill, so hard to swallow,' to convey the sweetness of love that's difficult to let go of, despite the potential harm it might cause. This juxtaposition of pleasure and pain suggests a relationship that is both enticing and challenging. The metaphor of gravity pulling the protagonist towards their partner illustrates the irresistible attraction they feel, further complicating their ability to make a clear judgment about their emotions.
'The Feeling' also touches on the theme of self-doubt and the fear of being delusional in love. The lines 'If I am delusional then maybe I'm crazy / In love with you, am I in love with you?' reflect the internal turmoil and the fear of losing oneself in the process of falling in love. The song resonates with listeners who have experienced the uncertainty of love and the difficulty of distinguishing between true affection and the fleeting excitement of a new romance.