Meaning of "When It's Love" by Van Halen

"When It's Love" delves into the complex nature of love and the challenges individuals face in identifying it. The opening lines suggest that everyone is searching for something to fill the voids within their lives, alluding to the belief that love can provide a sense of completion or fulfillment. The lyrics highlight the lack of open dialogue around the topic of love, indicating that despite thinking about it frequently, people rarely discuss their thoughts and feelings on the matter until situations become overwhelming.

The chorus of the song questions how one can truly know when love is present, suggesting that it is a feeling that defies clear definition. However, it also asserts that love is enduring and everlasting. The line "I can't tell you but it lasts forever" conveys the idea that love cannot be easily explained or quantified, but its impact remains throughout a lifetime.

The verses of the song discuss the uncertainty and anticipation that accompany the search for love. The lyrics describe scanning the faces in a crowd, with some individuals radiating warmth and familiarity, while others leave one guessing. This highlights the inherent mystery in finding someone who will teach the final lessons of love, possibly implying that love can be a learning process and a transformative experience.

The repetitive lines in the bridge and closing emphasize the overwhelming feeling that love brings when it is discovered. The use of "na na na" creates a sense of euphoria and unity, reflecting the idea that when love is present, nothing is missing. It encapsulates the notion of love as a profound shared experience that is felt together.

Overall, "When It's Love" explores the complexities of love and how it surpasses rational understanding or explanation. It emphasizes the lasting impact of love, suggesting that once it is found, it endures indefinitely, creating an indescribable feeling of togetherness and wholeness.