Meaning of "The Verb 'to Love'" by Todd Rundgren

"The Verb 'to Love" by Todd Rundgren lyrically delves into the complexities and different facets of love, interrogating its various forms and expressions. The song questions whether love is just a feeling or possession, or if it requires action behind it to truly hold meaning. Rundgren muses on whether love can be bought, joked about, or simply requires tenderness and physical expression to be felt. Throughout the lyrics, there is a yearning for a love that is genuine, accepting, and free of expectations, with the emphasis on unconditional acceptance and understanding. The repeated plea for loved ones to come home is a metaphor for seeking emotional connection and unity. The song also highlights the impact of loneliness and the fear of being alone, suggesting that many people seek love as a way to fill an emotional void or play a game to avoid loneliness. Ultimately, the message conveyed is that love requires sacrifice, selflessness, and a deep understanding of what it truly means to love another person wholeheartedly, beyond just words or superficial expressions.