The song "If You Love" by Howard Jones speaks about the duality of love and how it comes with both joy and pain. The chorus emphasizes that if you truly love someone or something, you must be prepared to experience hurt. It likens love to seeing flowers growing from muddy earth, symbolizing the beauty that can emerge from difficult situations. The lyrics suggest that if you shield yourself from pain and only live a safe, controlled life, you will also miss out on the joys that can accompany love. Living in a protective bubble, represented by "life under glass in the middle lane," prevents you from experiencing true happiness and fulfillment. Instead, the song encourages taking risks and embracing the unpredictability of life. It compares building a house on top of a high tree, which is dangerous and risky, to the exhilaration and beauty of a breathtaking view from up there. It encourages stepping out of your comfort zone and exploring new possibilities, even if it means getting a little dirty or going against societal norms. The repetition of the chorus reinforces the message that love requires both embracing the hurt and finding joy in the process. It highlights the contrast between never seeing the sun or feeling the rain, which represents the lack of true emotional experiences, and witnessing the beauty and growth that come from facing both joys and pains. Overall, "If You Love" encourages listeners to fully engage with life, love passionately, and be willing to accept the challenges and rewards that love brings. It promotes the idea that through embracing the full spectrum of emotions, one can find true fulfillment and growth.
