Love Ain't It

Rita Ora's song "Love Ain't It" delves into the complexities of love, power, and control. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who is searching for love and kindness but is met with the harsh reality that love, as they perceive it, may not exist. The repeated phrase "Love ain't it" underscores a sense of disillusionment and skepticism about the true nature of love. This sentiment is further amplified by the contrasting views of love and power, where the protagonist is told that fear and control are more important for ruling and achieving success.

The song also introduces a character who is described as a mean queen, a figure of authority who rules with an iron fist. This queen represents the antithesis of love, embodying fear, manipulation, and dominance. The lyrics suggest that this character's harsh demeanor is a result of past traumas and experiences, highlighting the idea that people often build walls and adopt aggressive behaviors as a form of self-protection. The queen's insistence on submission and loyalty, coupled with threats of imprisonment, further emphasizes the theme of control and the absence of genuine love.

In the latter part of the song, the protagonist grapples with their own desires and the expectations placed upon them. The lyrics reflect an internal struggle between wanting to assert their own identity and the pressure to conform to the queen's vision of power. The repeated refrain "Love ain't it" serves as a reminder of the protagonist's growing realization that the love they seek cannot be found in a world dominated by fear and control. Instead, the song suggests that true power lies in self-awareness and the courage to challenge oppressive systems.