The song "But I Love You" by Phyllis Hyman is a heartfelt ballad that explores the speaker's deep love for someone, despite their own shortcomings. The lyrics reflect the speaker's admission of not being perfect or knowing how to please their loved one, but they assure them that their love is genuine. In the beginning, the speaker acknowledges their inability to write songs or achieve great feats like going to the moon. However, they express their love for the person, questioning if that is enough for the present moment. It emphasizes the simplicity and sincerity of their love. The speaker continues to confess their lack of knowledge on how to constantly please their loved one. Nevertheless, they reassure them that their love is enough to make them want to stay in the relationship, even without knowing all the right answers or actions. The following verse describes a dream where the person floats down a stream, but the speaker is left calling from dry land. This imagery symbolizes the person drifting away while the speaker yearns for their connection. When the speaker wakes up, they appreciate holding their loved one while they sleep and experiencing the sweetness of their feelings. However, they confess their uncertainty about what to do with this love. Throughout the song, the speaker highlights the importance of tender moments that catch them by surprise. Despite their own limitations, they assure their loved one that their love is enough for them. The repeated refrain poses the question of whether their love is indeed sufficient for the person they cherish. Overall, "But I Love You" is an emotional song that expresses the speaker's genuine affection for someone, even if they have flaws and uncertainties.
