If Only

Patrice Rushen's song 'If Only' delves into the poignant and often painful experience of unrequited love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship where one person has given their all, providing emotional support and admiration, only to find that their feelings are not reciprocated in the same way. The narrator acknowledges the immense value and kindness of their friend, who has been a source of comfort and joy. However, despite recognizing these qualities, the narrator cannot force themselves to feel romantic love in return.

The song captures the internal conflict of wanting to reciprocate the deep affection and love that has been shown but being unable to do so. The repeated phrase 'If only I could be in love like you want me to' underscores the narrator's regret and sorrow over this emotional mismatch. The lyrics express a deep understanding of the pain of unreturned love, as the narrator empathizes with their friend's feelings, having experienced similar heartache themselves.

Patrice Rushen's soulful delivery and the heartfelt lyrics make 'If Only' a touching exploration of the complexities of human emotions and relationships. The song highlights the difficulty of navigating friendships where one person desires more, and the other cannot meet those expectations. It speaks to the universal experience of longing for a love that cannot be, and the sadness that accompanies the realization that sometimes, the heart simply cannot be persuaded.