What You Don't do

Lianne La Havas' song 'What You Don't Do' delves into the profound and often understated aspects of love and relationships. The lyrics emphasize the importance of actions over words, suggesting that true love doesn't always need grand gestures or constant verbal affirmations. Instead, it's the subtle, everyday actions and the absence of deceit that truly signify deep affection and commitment. This perspective challenges the conventional notion that love must be continuously proven through overt displays and declarations.

The song's chorus, 'It's what you don't do, it's what you don't say,' highlights the significance of trust and understanding in a relationship. La Havas sings about the comfort and security she feels, knowing her partner's love without needing constant reassurance. This sentiment is further reinforced by lines like 'I know you love me, I don't need proof,' which suggest a mature and confident love that transcends superficial validations. The lyrics also touch on the idea that the closer two people become, the less they need to outwardly show their affection, as their bond is inherently understood and felt.

Musically, Lianne La Havas' soulful and smooth vocal delivery complements the song's theme of understated love. Her style, often characterized by a blend of soul, folk, and jazz influences, adds a layer of emotional depth to the lyrics. The simplicity of the arrangement allows the message to shine through, making it a poignant reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful expressions of love are found in what is left unsaid and undone. This song resonates with anyone who has experienced the quiet, yet powerful, assurance of a love that doesn't need to be constantly proven to be felt and understood.