I Want Love

The song 'I Want Love' by Akira Yamaoka, known for his work on the soundtracks of the Silent Hill video game series, delves into the theme of longing for a love that is deep and fulfilling. The lyrics express a desire for love that is abundant and all-encompassing, yet there's an acknowledgment of an internal emptiness that such love cannot seem to fill. The repeated metaphor of a 'cup,' 'barrel,' 'river,' and 'ocean' of love illustrates the increasing desire for more love, suggesting that no matter how much love is received, there remains a void within the heart that persists.

The 'swiss-cheese heart' is a poignant metaphor for the speaker's emotional state, riddled with holes that only kindness can fill. The song speaks to the human condition of seeking emotional healing and the belief that love and kindness are the remedies for pain and tears. However, there's a realization that a mere temporary fix or 'charity' is not enough; what is needed is a 'miracle'—a transformative experience of love that can truly satisfy the deep longing of the heart.

The song also touches on the idea of specificity in love. The singer mentions that 'Anybody's love but his will never fill this space within me,' indicating a particular person whose love is essential for their happiness. This specificity adds a layer of personal yearning and the idea that sometimes, only love from a certain individual can truly make us feel complete. The song is a blend of hope and despair, a call for a profound connection that can heal and a recognition of the often unfulfilled human desire for such a connection.