Meaning of "If You Love" by Howard Jones

"If You Love" by Howard Jones delivers a powerful message about the complexities of love and the human experience. The lyrics suggest that love comes with a promise of both joy and pain, and to truly love is to embrace both aspects fully. The imagery of flowers growing from muddy earth symbolizes the beauty that can emerge from difficult circumstances. The metaphor of being under glass in the middle lane represents a life of safety and limitation, where one may not experience the full range of emotions that come with love. Jones encourages listeners to take risks, get their hands dirty, and experience life in its rawness, in order to fully appreciate love and all its complexities. The mention of building a house on top of the highest tree, despite the danger, highlights the idea that love requires bravery and a willingness to embrace the unknown. Overall, the song conveys a message of living life to the fullest, even if it means facing hurt and pain along the way.