Meaning of What by Bon Jovi

The Bon Jovi song titled 'What' is a captivating and introspective piece that delves into the mindset of the narrator as they reflect on their past and contemplate their future. The overall theme of the song seems to revolve around personal growth and transformation, as the narrator moves from a place of being a "petty criminal" to someone who is finding a way to work within the system and take care of their loved ones.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "No matter how hard I try, thought as soon as I taste a couple bands, I might feel something inside." This lyric speaks to the idea of finding fulfillment and purpose in material success. The narrator hints at a sense of emptiness or lack of fulfillment in their life, and they believe that accumulating money or material possessions might fill that void. This theme taps into the universal desire for happiness and the common misconception that material wealth alone can bring fulfillment.The next line, "I've been talking up to god, God and I we good, yeah we're alright," introduces a spiritual undertone to the song. It suggests that the narrator has found solace and guidance in their faith. This element adds depth to the theme of personal growth, as it implies that the narrator has found a sense of purpose and direction through their spiritual beliefs. It also speaks to the idea of redemption, potentially implying that they have turned to a higher power to seek forgiveness or guidance in their journey.As the narrator reflects on their past experiences, they mention "all the fun I had, all the trouble I got in, that only I trust to hide." This lyric brings forth the idea of secrets and the weight they can carry. It suggests that despite the narrator's personal growth, they still carry the burden of their past actions. This theme explores the concept of accountability and the need for personal responsibility. It shows that true growth involves acknowledging one's past mistakes and choosing to learn from them rather than allowing them to define their future.The chorus of the song emphasizes the narrator's desire to think bigger, to move from being a "petty criminal" to someone who finesse the legal system and takes care of their people. This theme highlights the importance of ambition and the pursuit of a greater purpose. It suggests that the narrator has recognized the limitations of their previous actions and now aspires to make a positive impact on the world around them.In the outro of the song, the lyric "I try not to sound pretentious, but in the end, you could have probably prevented it" introduces the idea of personal accountability blended with a touch of regret. The narrator acknowledges that they may have made choices that others could have influenced or prevented. This theme delves into the complexities of individual responsibility, subtly hinting at the role external influences can play in one's life.Overall, the song 'What' by Bon Jovi encompasses the themes of personal growth, redemption, spiritual introspection, accountability, and ambition. Each standout lyric contributes to these overarching themes by exploring different facets and perspectives of the narrator's journey. From the pursuit of material success to seeking solace in spirituality, from carrying the weight of one's past to striving for a better future, the song embarks on a nuanced exploration of the human experience. It serves as a reminder that true growth and transformation often require introspection, a willingness to learn from past mistakes, and the courage to chase something greater.