What Is Love

L'Arc~en~Ciel's song 'What Is Love' delves into the complex and often elusive nature of love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the concept of love, feeling its absence, and yearning to understand it. The imagery of the '染められた空の赤' (dyed red sky) sets a melancholic tone, symbolizing the emotional turmoil and confusion the protagonist feels. This red sky, in which both the protagonist and their significant other seem to sink, represents a shared yet isolating experience of searching for meaning in love.

The song's verses reflect a sense of disconnection and longing. The protagonist leaves '宛てのない足跡' (aimless footprints), signifying a journey without direction or purpose. Despite the beauty of the seasons and the gentle moments that pass by, the protagonist's eyes fail to recognize them, indicating a numbness or inability to feel the tenderness that love typically brings. This numbness is further emphasized by the repeated questioning of '今でも愛を知らなくて' (even now, I don't know love), highlighting the protagonist's frustration and confusion about their emotional state.

The chorus, with its poignant question 'What is love?', encapsulates the central theme of the song. The protagonist's struggle to grasp the essence of love, even when it seems within reach, is a powerful metaphor for the human experience of seeking and often failing to understand deep emotional connections. The song concludes with a sense of unresolved longing, as the protagonist continues to wait for their significant other, captivated by the vivid sunset, yet still enveloped in the mystery of love. This unresolved ending leaves listeners contemplating the true nature of love and the emotional journey it entails.