Meaning of "Love is a Verb" by John Mayer

"Love is a Verb" delves into the idea that love is not simply a feeling or a concept, but rather a deliberate action. The lyrics express that love goes beyond mere words, emphasizing the importance of demonstrating love through actions and behavior. The repetition of the line "Love ain't a thing, love is a verb" underscores this notion and challenges the conventional understanding of love as something tangible or passive.

The song suggests that love cannot be solely relied upon as a crutch or an excuse. The line "No you can't get through love on just a pile of IOUs" implies that empty promises or indebtedness are not sufficient to sustain love. Love is not something that can be bought or accumulated through a transactional approach but requires genuine effort and active participation.

Furthermore, the lyrics imply that love is not an addictive substance like a drug. This notion challenges the romanticized idea of love as an all-consuming passion or obsession. Instead, love is presented as something pure and authentic, to be experienced and shared, rather than consumed or used to escape reality.

Overall, the song "Love is a Verb" conveys the message that love is an intentional act that necessitates continuous effort, showing that actions speak louder than words. It encourages individuals to actively demonstrate their love and not rely on empty promises or token gestures.