Meaning of What Kind Of Love Are You On by Aerosmith

The song "What Kind Of Love Are You On" by Aerosmith is a hard-hitting rock anthem that explores the complexities of love and relationships. At first listen, it may seem like a straightforward song about the confusion and contradictions in a person's behavior when it comes to love. However, delving deeper into the lyrics reveals a multitude of thought-provoking and unexpected themes that amplify the overall theme of the song.One standout lyric that sparks exploration is, "You're kicking the dog because you can't get the cat." This line metaphorically portrays the frustration and dissatisfaction that can arise when someone can't have what they truly desire. It highlights the theme of unattainability and the human tendency to act out in misplaced anger or seek substitutes when faced with unrequited love. It suggests that in the pursuit of love, we often cause harm to those who have nothing to do with our emotional struggles.Another compelling lyric in the song is, "Kiss on the devil and you piss off a saint," which explores the theme of moral dilemmas and the blurred lines between good and bad in relationships. It suggests that love can drive us to act in ways that challenge societal norms and personal beliefs. It evokes the idea that love can push us to do both righteous and sinful things, blurring the boundaries between right and wrong.In the verse, "Jelly roll Jane, rolling on the rug, Toking on a lover like a brand new drug," Aerosmith delves into the theme of addiction within relationships. Comparing love to a drug, this metaphor highlights how love has the power to exhilarate and consume a person's life. It suggests that sometimes, we become dependent on the rush and excitement that love brings, often leading to a repetitive and unfulfilling cycle.The lyrical imagery found in, "When Jack took Jill up that hill, She charged his ass a quarter, Well, he flipped his lid cause what she did, Oh, she shouldn't hadn't oughta," speaks to the theme of power dynamics in relationships. It portrays a scenario where Jack and Jill's encounter on the hill symbolizes the exchange of power between two individuals. The lyrics hint at the concept of transactional relationships, where one person dominates and exploits the other for personal gain. It sheds light on the darker aspects of love, where manipulation and control can often overshadow genuine connection.The song's overall theme revolves around the various facets of love, ranging from its confusing nature to the extreme emotions it can elicit. It challenges the listener to contemplate the different forms love can take and the impact it has on our thoughts, actions, and even moral compass. Each standout lyric mentioned above adds depth to this overarching theme, exploring unexpected and imaginative elements in relationships.In summary, Aerosmith's "What Kind Of Love Are You On" delves into the intricate and compelling aspects of love, unraveling themes of unattainability, moral dilemmas, addiction, power dynamics, and more. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song invites the listener on a reflective journey, encouraging them to question the multifaceted nature of love and the complexities it brings to our lives.