Meaning of "Cocktails" by Dennis Wilson

The lyrics of "Cocktails" capture a yearning for lasting love and emotional connection. The repetition of "If love had its way" suggests a sense of powerlessness in the face of love's unpredictability and fleeting nature. The imagery of building a smile and making it sing conveys a desire to bring joy and happiness to a loved one, while the comparison to a waterfall symbolizes the desire to fully immerse oneself in the other person. The plea of "Why don't you say you love me?" reflects a longing for reciprocated feelings and open communication in the relationship. Overall, the lyrics convey a deep longing for love to be enduring and mutually fulfilling, despite the uncertainty and vulnerability that often accompany it.