Meaning of Don’t Know Why I Love You by Michael Jackson

In Michael Jackson's soulful ballad, "Don't Know Why I Love You," the artist explores the complexities and contradictions of love. The overall theme of the song revolves around a love that defies all logic and reason. Jackson admits that he cannot explain why he loves someone who treats him poorly and repeatedly cheats on him. Despite the pain and heartache, he cannot help but love this person. Through the lyricism of this song, Jackson delves into the depths of an unconventional and tumultuous love, giving us insights into various emotive themes.One standout lyric that captures the essence of the song is, "Always treat me like a fool, Kick me when I'm down, that's your rule." This lyric highlights the theme of emotional vulnerability and explores the dynamics of power within a relationship. Despite being mistreated, the singer remains devoted and attached, unable to break free from the cycle of hurt. This theme resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of a toxic love, where their heart still yearns for the person who continuously causes them distress.Another profound line that exemplifies the song's themes is, "You throw my heart down in the dirt, Oh, you make me crawl on this cold black earth." Here, Jackson eloquently portrays the theme of sacrifice and how love can sometimes be synonymous with enduring suffering. The image of crawling on the cold black earth evokes feelings of helplessness and desperation. It touches upon the lengths to which individuals may go to hold onto love, even when it destroys their sense of self-worth.One unexpected and imaginative theme that emerges from the lyrics is the notion of addiction. The repetition of the line, "I don't know why I love you, but I love you," parallels the struggle of someone trapped in the throes of a substance addiction. Love becomes an addiction in itself, a vice that defies rationality and keeps the person hooked, despite the negative consequences. Through this interpretation, the song becomes a poignant exploration of the all-consuming and often destructive nature of love's hold on our hearts.Furthermore, the lyric, "Can't stop, I can't stop crying, can't you see, even though you're on my knees," introduces the theme of emotional dependence. Jackson portrays a sense of desperation, where the singer is pleading for help and validation from their loved one. This theme unveils the deep emotional bond that exists between two individuals, how one's actions can influence the emotional state of another. It highlights the power that love holds over us, compelling us to act against our own well-being.Lastly, the repetition of the phrase, "I don't know, we don't know, we don't know nothing about it" emphasizes the theme of uncertainty and confusion. Love is an enigma, often defying understanding and confounding our rational faculties. This lyrical statement acknowledges that sometimes love exists beyond our comprehension, defying logic and rational explanations. It showcases the human tendency to persist in love even when we are unsure of why.In conclusion, Michael Jackson's "Don't Know Why I Love You" explores the complexities and contradictions inherent in love. Through its lyricism, the song uncovers various emotive themes such as emotional vulnerability, sacrifice, addiction, emotional dependence, and the uncertainty surrounding love. By delving into these profound themes, Jackson crafts a timeless ballad that resonates with listeners, inviting self-reflection and introspection about their own experiences with the enigma we call love.