If This Is Love

Ruth B.'s song "If This Is Love" delves into the complexities and paradoxes of romantic relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of emotional turmoil, where the protagonist grapples with the conflicting feelings of love and pain. The song opens with the artist reflecting on a difficult day, trying to make sense of hurtful words that have left her feeling broken and blue. This sets the stage for the central question of the song: if this is truly love, why does it cause so much pain?

The chorus repeatedly asks, "If this is love, why does it break me down?" This poignant question captures the essence of the song, highlighting the confusion and heartache that often accompany deep emotional connections. The artist expresses a sense of longing and dependency, yet she is also aware of the emotional toll the relationship is taking on her. This duality is a common theme in many love songs, but Ruth B. brings a raw and personal touch to it, making the listener feel her vulnerability and inner conflict.

As the song progresses, the artist reminisces about happier times and the initial attraction that brought the couple together. Despite the pain, there is an acknowledgment of the deep bond they share, as she refers to her partner as "the other half of my broken heart." This metaphor suggests that even though the relationship is fraught with difficulties, there is an undeniable connection that makes it hard to let go. The song ends on a bittersweet note, encapsulating the paradox of love: it can be both beautiful and painful, uplifting and heartbreaking.