Love To Be Loved

Peter Gabriel's 'Love To Be Loved' delves into the profound human need for connection and validation. The song opens with a reflection on how people often reach a breaking point, where their minds are overwhelmed by the complexities of life. Gabriel introduces the theme of vulnerability, expressing a fear of letting go and revealing one's true self. This sets the stage for the central message of the song: the intrinsic desire to be loved and accepted.

The chorus emphasizes this yearning, with Gabriel confessing his need to be needed, liked, and wanted. The repetition of 'I love to be loved' underscores the intensity of this craving. The lyrics draw a parallel between the raw, undeniable emotions of a crying baby and the adult's struggle to express and accept their feelings. This comparison highlights the universality of the need for love and the difficulty in confronting and communicating these deep-seated emotions.

As the song progresses, Gabriel acknowledges a familiar pattern of behavior driven by this craving for love. He speaks of a cyclical struggle, where he recognizes the need to let go of past hurts and fears. The lyrics convey a sense of loss and the challenge of moving on, yet there is a resolve to release these burdens. The song concludes with a poignant acceptance of the cost of holding onto these emotions, reaffirming the powerful, almost paradoxical, love for being loved despite the pain it may bring. Gabriel's introspective lyrics and emotive delivery make 'Love To Be Loved' a compelling exploration of the human condition and the relentless pursuit of emotional connection.