What Is Love? TWICE's Song Meaning Explored

Have you ever wondered what love truly is? It's a question that has puzzled philosophers, poets, and songwriters for centuries. And who better to explore this universal theme than the sensational K-pop girl group, TWICE? Their hit song "What is Love?" delves into the complexities of love in a catchy and relatable way. In this article, we'll unpack the meaning behind the lyrics, the music video, and the overall message of this iconic song.

The Allure of "What is Love?"

"What is Love?" isn't just a catchy tune; it's a cultural phenomenon. Released in 2018, the song quickly became a chart-topper, captivating fans worldwide with its infectious melody and charming concept. But what exactly makes this song so special? It's the way TWICE tackles the question of love with youthful curiosity and a touch of cinematic flair. The music video is a delightful homage to classic romance movies, featuring the members recreating iconic scenes from films like "La Boum," "Ghost," and "Pulp Fiction." This playful approach to a complex emotion resonates with listeners of all ages, making "What is Love?" a timeless anthem for anyone who has ever pondered the mysteries of the heart.

The song's lyrics further explore the different facets of love, from the initial curiosity to the overwhelming emotions it can evoke. The members of TWICE sing about the anticipation of experiencing love for the first time, wondering what it will feel like and how it will change them. They question the very definition of love, acknowledging that it's a multifaceted emotion that can manifest in various ways. This exploration of love's ambiguity is what makes the song so relatable. It doesn't offer a definitive answer but rather invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences and perceptions of love.

Furthermore, the music video's cinematic references add another layer of depth to the song's meaning. By recreating iconic scenes from romance movies, TWICE highlights the influence of popular culture on our understanding of love. We often learn about love through the stories we see on screen, and "What is Love?" acknowledges this influence while also encouraging us to define love on our own terms. The video's playful and lighthearted tone also reinforces the idea that love should be fun and exciting, not something to be feared or overanalyzed.

Decoding the Lyrics: A Journey into Love's Labyrinth

To truly understand the essence of "What is Love?", we need to delve deeper into the lyrics. The song opens with a sense of wonder and curiosity, as the members of TWICE express their eagerness to experience love. They sing about watching movies and reading books, trying to decipher the secrets of romance. This reflects the universal human desire to understand love and to find our own place within its narrative.

The pre-chorus builds the anticipation, as the members question what it will feel like to fall in love. They wonder if it will be like the stories they've seen and heard, or something entirely different. This uncertainty is a key element of the song's appeal. It acknowledges that love is not a predictable or formulaic emotion but rather a unique and personal experience. The chorus then explodes with the central question: "What is love?" It's a simple yet profound inquiry that encapsulates the song's central theme. The members repeat the question, emphasizing their desire to understand this elusive emotion. The catchy melody and repetitive lyrics make the question linger in your mind, prompting you to consider your own answer.

Throughout the song, TWICE explores different aspects of love, such as the excitement of first dates, the nervousness of expressing your feelings, and the joy of being in a loving relationship. They also touch on the challenges of love, such as heartbreak and disappointment. This realistic portrayal of love's complexities is what makes the song so authentic and relatable. It doesn't shy away from the difficulties that love can bring but rather acknowledges them as part of the overall experience.

Moreover, the lyrics of "What is Love?" emphasize the importance of communication and understanding in a relationship. The members sing about the need to express your feelings openly and honestly and to listen to your partner's needs and desires. This message is particularly relevant in today's society, where relationships can often be strained by misunderstandings and miscommunication. By highlighting the importance of these elements, TWICE encourages listeners to cultivate healthy and fulfilling relationships.

The Music Video: A Cinematic Celebration of Romance

The music video for "What is Love?" is a visual masterpiece that perfectly complements the song's themes. As mentioned earlier, the video features TWICE recreating iconic scenes from classic romance movies, such as "La Boum," "Ghost," and "Pulp Fiction." This cinematic approach adds a layer of nostalgia and whimsy to the song, making it even more appealing to a wide audience. Each member embodies a different character from these films, showcasing their versatility and acting skills. The attention to detail in the costumes, sets, and cinematography is remarkable, creating a visually stunning experience that enhances the song's overall impact.

The use of these cinematic references also serves a deeper purpose. It highlights the influence of popular culture on our understanding of love. We often learn about love through the stories we see on screen, and the music video acknowledges this influence while also encouraging us to define love on our own terms. By recreating these iconic scenes, TWICE invites us to reflect on the romantic ideals that have shaped our perceptions of love. They also suggest that love can be found in unexpected places and that it doesn't always conform to traditional narratives.

Furthermore, the music video's playful and lighthearted tone reinforces the idea that love should be fun and exciting. The members of TWICE are clearly enjoying themselves as they recreate these iconic scenes, and their enthusiasm is infectious. The video's overall message is that love is an adventure, full of surprises and laughter. It's not something to be feared or overanalyzed but rather something to be embraced and enjoyed.

The vibrant colors and energetic choreography in the music video also contribute to its overall appeal. The members of TWICE are known for their synchronized dance moves, and the choreography for "What is Love?" is particularly captivating. The dance is both playful and elegant, reflecting the song's blend of youthful energy and sophisticated charm. The bright and colorful sets and costumes further enhance the video's visual appeal, creating a vibrant and engaging experience for viewers.

The Enduring Message of Love

"What is Love?" is more than just a catchy K-pop song; it's a thoughtful exploration of a universal emotion. TWICE's hit song delves into the complexities of love with youthful curiosity and a touch of cinematic flair, making it relatable to listeners of all ages. The lyrics explore the different facets of love, from the initial curiosity to the overwhelming emotions it can evoke, while the music video pays homage to classic romance movies, highlighting the influence of popular culture on our understanding of love. The song's enduring message is that love is a multifaceted emotion that can manifest in various ways and that it's something to be embraced and enjoyed.

Ultimately, "What is Love?" doesn't offer a definitive answer to the question it poses. Instead, it invites us to consider our own experiences and perceptions of love. It reminds us that love is a personal journey, full of surprises and challenges. And it encourages us to define love on our own terms, rather than relying on external influences or expectations. So, what is love? It's up to each of us to discover the answer for ourselves, just like TWICE encourages us to do in their timeless hit song.