Meaning of What Do You Want by Culture Club

The Culture Club song titled "What Do You Want" presents a compelling exploration of various themes through its heartfelt lyrics. At first listen, the overall theme of the song appears to revolve around a relationship, characterized by a sense of confusion, longing, and the narrator's willingness to give everything they have. However, when delving deeper into the lyrics, it becomes evident that there are several standout or important lyrics that contribute to the development of unexpected and imaginative themes within the song.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "Promises are in your eyes, never to return." This lyric evokes a sense of broken promises and unfulfilled commitments. Within the context of the song, it illuminates the theme of unrequited love, where the narrator has been let down by the person they hold dear. However, from an imaginative perspective, this lyric can also symbolize the fragility of dreams and aspirations. It suggests that sometimes, promises made to oneself can also remain unfulfilled or abandoned, leading to a similar sense of loss and disappointment.Another powerful lyric in "What Do You Want" is "Pretty faces break your heart, words that turn to dust." This line delves into the theme of false appearances and the pain that can arise from superficiality. It suggests that relying solely on external beauty and charm can lead to disappointment and heartbreak when they are not matched by true substance. Imagination takes this theme further by exploring the idea that our perceptions of others are often distorted by surface-level attributes, causing us to overlook the deeper essence of their being.The imagery of waiting for the wheel to turn in the lyric "Waiting for the wheel to turn, shall I waste my life" introduces the theme of stagnation and the fear of missing out on life's opportunities. It conveys a sense of frustration and longing for change or progression, indicating that the narrator feels stuck in their current circumstances. In a more imaginative twist, this theme can be seen as a metaphor for the passage of time. It suggests that life is a delicate balance between waiting for things to happen and taking bold action, highlighting the importance of seizing opportunities before it's too late.The recurring question of "What do you want from me?" serves as a central motif in the song. While on the surface, it relates to the complexities of a relationship dynamic, this question can also encompass broader themes such as self-discovery, identity, and the quest for validation. It speaks to the universal desire to understand one's purpose and significance in the eyes of others and oneself. The imaginative interpretation of this theme delves into the idea that the question of what others want from us is ultimately a reflection of our own inner insecurities, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and personal growth.In essence, "What Do You Want" by Culture Club goes beyond its surface-level interpretation as a song about relationships to explore themes of broken promises, the dangers of superficiality, the fear of missed opportunities, and the quest for self-validation. Each standout lyric contributes to the development of these unexpected and imaginative themes, adding depth and nuance to the song's overall message. By unraveling the layers of meaning in this song, we can find resonance in our own lives and reflect on the complex emotions and universal experiences it conveys.