How Do I Make You Love Me?

The Weeknd's song "How Do I Make You Love Me?" is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the desperation that comes with it. The lyrics convey a deep yearning for affection and the lengths one might go to in order to obtain the love of another. The song's protagonist is caught in a cycle of seeking approval and validation, questioning what it would take to make the object of their affection reciprocate their feelings.

The narrative of the song suggests a willingness to change or adapt to win someone's love, as seen in the lines about going back in time and escaping reality. The mention of 'fixing mushroom tea' and crossing a 'restless sea' could symbolize the desire to connect on a deeper, perhaps psychedelic level, or to traverse great emotional distances. The Weeknd's character is ready to help the person he loves to overcome their past traumas and shine again, indicating a deep emotional investment in their well-being.

However, the repeated chorus, "How do I make you love me?" underscores the futility and potential obsession in trying to force love. It reflects the universal struggle of wanting to be loved and the fear of rejection. The Weeknd's emotive delivery and the atmospheric production of the song amplify the sense of longing and the emotional turmoil of loving someone who may not love you back. The song resonates with anyone who has ever grappled with the complexities of love and the vulnerability it entails.