The meaning of What Do You Want From Me by Pink Floyd

"What Do You Want From Me" is a poignant song by Pink Floyd from their 1994 album "The Division Bell". The lyrics, written by Richard Wright, are a introspective exploration of a strained relationship. The song's protagonist is struggling to understand the motivations and emotions of his partner, as they drift apart.

A Cry for Connection

The opening lines, "What do you want from me? / What did I ever do to make you want to leave?" set the tone for the song, which is a plea for understanding and connection. The lyrics are laced with frustration and longing, as the protagonist seeks to grasp what's driving his partner away.

Disconnection and Desperation

As the song progresses, Wright's poignant vocals paint a picture of two people adrift in a sea of uncertainty. "I'm trying to be patient / But it's hard to understand" underscores the desperation that comes with feeling disconnected from one another. The repetition of "what do you want from me?" becomes a refrain, emphasizing the protagonist's sense of helplessness and despair.

A Search for Answers

Throughout the song, Wright's distinctive keyboard playing provides a haunting backdrop, punctuated by gentle guitar work from David Gilmour. The music swirls around the lyrics like a vortex, drawing the listener into the emotional turmoil. As the song reaches its climax, it becomes clear that "What Do You Want From Me" is ultimately a search for answers – not just from his partner, but also from himself.

A Reflection of Human Experience

In many ways, "What Do You Want From Me" serves as a reflection of human experience. The lyrics speak to the universal desire for connection and understanding in relationships. As Wright so poignantly asks, what do we want from each other? And perhaps more importantly, what do we want from ourselves? The song's introspective nature invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love, loss, and disconnection.