Meaning of I Want You by Mitski

The Mitski song titled "I Want You" explores themes of longing, desire, and the complexities of love. Through her evocative lyrics, Mitski delves into the emotional depths of human connections and explores the different facets of love that often go unspoken.One standout lyric in the song is, "I hold one card that I can't use, but I want you." This lyric speaks to the idea of having something valuable, a card, that could potentially change the course of a situation, but being unable to utilize it. This lyric could symbolize the frustration of desiring someone who may be unattainable or the inability to express one's true emotions. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the yearning for what we cannot have.Another important lyric in the song is, "You're coming back, and it's the end of the world. We're starting over, and I love you, darling, and I am done, dear." This lyric captures the conflicting emotions of both an impending tragedy and a fresh start in a relationship. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the bittersweet nature of love, where even in the face of heartache or uncertainty, there is an undeniable love that remains.The chorus of the song further expands upon the theme of longing and the desire to express one's love. Mitski sings, "You're in the house, and I am here in the car. I just need a quiet place where I can scream how I love you." This lyric speaks to the need for a private space to freely express one's intense emotions. It suggests the idea of wanting to shout from the mountaintops about one's love, but needing a calm and private environment to do so. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the dichotomy between the private and public aspects of love, the desire to proclaim one's affection but also the need for intimacy and vulnerability within a relationship.In the second verse of the song, Mitski sings, "I found you, I found the door, but when I stepped through, there was no floor." This lyric could symbolize the discovery of a potential opportunity or a chance at love, only to realize that it was not what was expected. It speaks to the vulnerability of putting oneself out there only to be met with disappointment or unfulfilled expectations. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the uncertainty and disillusionment that can come with pursuing love.In the outro of the song, Mitski repeats the lyric, "I want you, I want you." This repetition emphasizes the intense desire and longing that permeates the entire song. It captures the intensity of emotions experienced when deeply infatuated with someone. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the overwhelming power of attraction and the all-consuming nature of wanting someone.Overall, the theme of Mitski's "I Want You" revolves around the complexities and nuances of love. Through her poignant lyrics, she explores the yearning for the unattainable, the bittersweet nature of relationships, the contrast between public and private expressions of affection, the disillusionment of unfulfilled expectations, and the overpowering desire for someone. This song serves as an examination of the many facets and emotions experienced within the realm of love, ultimately leaving the listener captivated by its depth and relatability.