 Critics have commented on the message in the lyrics . Anderson noted a dark theme , while Nick Levine of Digital Spy , Allie Townsend of Time magazine and Jocelyn Noveck of The Associated Press suggested the previous relationships of both artists influenced the song . Levine gave it four stars out of five . According to Eric Hayden of The Atlantic Wire , the song refers to an alcoholic couple , possibly inspired by Rihanna 's relationship with Brown . McAlphine awarded " Love the Way You Lie " four stars out of five . According to him , the song would not have been effective if it had featured only Eminem 's point of view and feelings of regret ; he wrote that Rihanna 's representing the opposite side of the relationship shows " proper storytelling " and " sends a message " because of her breakup with Brown . McAlphine wrote that as a result the song depicts a more realistic abusive relationship and could be featured in a campaign for women 's shelters . He praised Eminem 's accuracy and understanding of the topic . Winston Robbins from the music website Consequence of Sound attributed the song 's poignancy to Rihanna 's past abusive relationship , and a theme of infidelity and abuse . 
