Since the release of Eminem's controversial new single and video "Love the Way You Lie," I have received thousands of emails asking my opinion as an abuse expert.
Does the song promote or glamorize domestic violence?
To be honest, in the beginning as an abuse advocate I had very mixed feelings about the song. Eminem has been known for violence against women, and Rihanna, a young woman who is famously known for the abuse she endured at the hands of Chris Brown.
As the video begins, the young couple, Megan Fox and Dominic Monaghan sleep wrapped in each others arms, but within seconds, after she notices a phone number from another woman on his hand, they are violently hitting and shoving each other. As the video continues, the couple are once again affectionate towards each other, kissing passionately, while pressed up against the wall. The same wall Monaghan's character puts his fist through. All along while, Rihanna sings, "That's all right because I like the way it hurts."
Many people are questioning the song. Is it deflecting Eminem's real life relationship with ex-wife Kim Mathers?
In my personal opinion, if the song/video is indeed deflecting the relationship of Marshall and Kim Mathers, I believe through the song Eminem is telling his fans, domestic violence is wrong. If you are in a bad relationship it is better to walk away than to continuously hurt someone you love.
I believe the song is a voice against violence, and the video is insight. The two combined creates awareness and depicts the cycle of a typical abusive relationship. I believe the song/video is extremely potent towards young people since Eminem and Rihanna have both struggled in the past, and because both are very influential towards young people in today's society.
I believe with their pasts, people, especially young people, will hear the song or see the video and get the message, loud and clear. Domestic violence is wrong! You don't hurt the people you love! This song and video is clearly a warning sign for anyone in an abusive relationship!
The images of fire and crumbling into pieces is very symbolic. Anyone who has been in an abusive relationship, over time feels small and slowly, piece by piece crumbles, until they have lost every ounce of power and strength they once possessed, until they feel hopeless (as the characters depicted) and their life is no longer their own.
The song clearly shows personal growth within the real life of Marshall Mathers.
If you or someone you love is being abused SEEK HELP!
