If Our Love Is Dead

Royel Otis's song "If Our Love Is Dead" delves into the emotional turmoil and confusion that follows the end of a romantic relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that has lost its vitality, leaving the narrator grappling with the remnants of what once was. The repeated question, "If our love is dead, what are we holding on to?" underscores the central theme of the song: the struggle to let go of a relationship that no longer brings joy or fulfillment.

The song opens with a melancholic tone, as the narrator contemplates the futility of holding on to a dead love. The imagery of rain and a weathervane suggests a sense of directionlessness and emotional turbulence. The line "The soup has come to life" is a metaphor for the complexity and messiness of the situation, while the music that "sings" as the narrator drowns in their lover's thighs highlights the bittersweet memories that linger despite the relationship's demise.

Throughout the song, the narrator oscillates between moments of clarity and confusion. They acknowledge the pain and embarrassment of being "buried" by their partner, yet they also express a longing for the past and a wish for things to be different. The reference to medicine being "bittersweet" encapsulates the duality of their emotions—while they recognize that the relationship is toxic, they still find it hard to let go. This internal conflict is a common experience for many who have loved deeply and lost, making the song relatable and poignant.

The repetition of the chorus emphasizes the cyclical nature of the narrator's thoughts and feelings. They are caught in a loop, unable to move forward or fully let go. This repetition mirrors the way people often ruminate on past relationships, replaying memories and questioning their decisions. Royel Otis captures this emotional complexity with a blend of introspective lyrics and haunting melodies, creating a song that resonates with anyone who has struggled to move on from a lost love.