Meaning of "Only The Ones We Love" by Tanita Tikaram

The lyrics of "Only The Ones We Love" delve into the concept of love and its significance in our lives. The opening lines, "Oh, you can't say nothing to the pouring rain, And you can't say nothing till there's hope again," suggest the powerlessness we may feel in the face of adversity, emphasizing that words alone may not be enough to overcome challenges. The line, "Oh my baby - you must never change, For we're only the ones we love," highlights the idea that it is in our connections and relationships with others where our true identity lies. Our capacity to love and be loved defines who we are.

The lyrics continue to explore the transformative power of love, as seen in the lines, "For we're only the ones we love, You're the only one who could say, I could love this way." This suggests that love has the ability to change us and bring out the best in us. Love has the power to heal, calm, and bring peace to our lives. The repetition of the phrase "we're only the ones we love" reinforces the notion that our relationships and the love we give and receive are what truly matter in life.

The lyrics also touch upon the idea of missed opportunities and unfulfilled dreams. The lines, "And they've seen something which I'll never see, But - I dreamed something when you fell for me," suggest that while others may have experiences we will never have, the love we share with someone can bring us a unique and fulfilling experience. Love has the ability to lift us above our limitations and bring us joy and fulfillment.

Overall, the song "Only The Ones We Love" conveys the message that love is what defines us and gives meaning to our existence. It explores the transformative power of love, its ability to bring comfort and joy, and the profound impact it can have on our lives.