What It Is

The overall theme of this song revolves around a quest for clarity in love and life. Amber Mark reflects on the emotional turmoil that comes with relationships and the constant search for meaning. She balances feelings of hope and confusion, showing that understanding oneself and the nature of love can be a complicated journey. The lyrics express a yearning for answers while also embracing the uncertainty that life brings.

Verse 1

I, I gave it my all, I tried
But nothing could stop this fire
So hard to leave it all behind
And I know

In this opening verse, Amber sets the tone of vulnerability and determination. She admits to putting everything into her relationship, but despite her efforts, the passion is overwhelming and hard to control. The mention of leaving it all behind hints at a struggle to move on, suggesting that the emotional weight is heavy. There’s a mix of acceptance and sorrow, which sets up the rest of the song.

Chorus

The good with the bad, we fall
What is the point of it all? Hmm
So there goes my heart, I fell apart

The chorus beautifully captures the duality in relationships. Amber acknowledges the ups and downs, questioning the purpose behind the pain. Her heart breaking serves as a powerful image of vulnerability, reinforcing how love can lead to both joy and hurt. This sentiment of questioning life’s meaning resonates strongly throughout the song, making it relatable for anyone who’s faced similar struggles.

Verse 2

Trying to love
Wanna be free, so God, tell me, please
Is it in the stars? Oh /

Here, Amber expresses a desire for freedom alongside her wish to love. It feels like she’s searching for guidance, almost like she’s asking for a sign from a higher power. The line about “the stars” adds a mystical element, suggesting that she believes there might be some fate or destiny involved in her search for love. This verse deepens the emotional landscape, showing her inner conflict.

Chorus

Feel it in my bones, oh, I've got to know
Tell me what it is? It is (what it is? What it is? What it is)
It is, it is (what it is? What it is? What it is)

The repeated questioning in the chorus emphasizes her urgency to understand her feelings. The phrase “feel it in my bones” implies that this search for answers is instinctual and deep-rooted. It's catchy and reinforces the idea that she’s obsessed with figuring out what her emotions truly mean. This part feels like a mantra, capturing the essence of her quest.

Bridge

Is it that sense of wonder? (Wonder)
It hit like lightning (lightning)
Feel that inner thunder (thunder)
It's so inviting (ooh-ooh), yeah

In the bridge, Amber introduces the idea of wonder. The imagery of lightning and thunder creates a vivid picture of intense feelings that can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. She hints that these feelings are attractive, drawing her in despite the chaos they bring. This part offers a glimpse into the beauty of love, even amidst its challenges.

Verse 3

Dive deep in the dark with no light
And I'm looking for a sign
Should I have left it all behind?
And I know life really takes its toll

In this verse, Amber paints a picture of despair. The darkness symbolizes confusion and struggle, while her search for a sign indicates a desire for clarity. The line about life taking its toll reflects a sense of weariness, adding depth to her emotional state. It shows that she’s grappling with significant decisions, wondering if staying or leaving is the right choice.

Chorus

So there goes my heart, I fell apart
Trying to love
Wanna be free (wanna be free), so God, tell me please (God, tell me please)

This chorus revisits the themes of heartbreak and longing for freedom. It’s a powerful reminder of her emotional state, and the repetition strengthens the feeling of desperation. By asking God for guidance, she’s acknowledging that she feels lost and uncertain, which makes the song resonate even more.

Outro

Don't know how, a feeling so strange, yeah
The way time never stays the same
So is life with failure and age (ooh-ooh)
Wondering, why do we throw so much shame?

In the outro, Amber reflects on the strange nature of feelings and time. She acknowledges the inevitability of change and how it plays into her experiences with love and life. The mention of shame adds a layer of depth, hinting at societal pressures and personal burdens. This ending leaves listeners contemplating their own experiences and feelings.

Closing Thoughts

Amber Mark’s "What It Is" beautifully explores the highs and lows of love, emphasizing the search for understanding amidst chaos. The mix of vulnerability and strength in her lyrics makes it relatable, as we all grapple with similar questions about love and life. The song reminds us that while the journey can be tough, it’s also filled with moments of wonder that make it worthwhile.