What Is This Thing Called Love

Frank Sinatra's song "What Is This Thing Called Love" delves into the perplexing and often tumultuous nature of love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who was living a mundane life until love unexpectedly entered through an open window, bringing joy and excitement. However, this newfound happiness is fleeting, as love soon departs, leaving the person in a state of confusion and longing. The song captures the essence of love's unpredictability and the emotional rollercoaster it can create in one's life.

The chorus of the song poses a series of rhetorical questions that highlight the mysterious and elusive nature of love. Sinatra's smooth and emotive delivery emphasizes the frustration and bewilderment that often accompany romantic relationships. The lyrics question why love has the power to make a fool of someone and why it can be so difficult to understand. This sense of bewilderment is a common theme in many of Sinatra's songs, reflecting the complexities of human emotions and relationships.

In the latter part of the song, the lyrics recount a personal experience of love and loss. The narrator describes how their life was transformed into an enchanted dream by the presence of a loved one, only to be shattered when someone else came into the picture. The imagery of feeling the winter's chill symbolizes the cold and desolate emotions that follow the end of a romantic relationship. Despite the pain and heartache, the narrator still finds themselves in love, pondering the reasons behind their enduring feelings. This poignant reflection on the enduring nature of love, even in the face of betrayal and loss, resonates deeply with listeners and underscores the timeless appeal of Sinatra's music.