What Do You Want From Me

Pink Floyd's 'What Do You Want From Me' is a song that delves into the pressures of meeting expectations and the search for understanding within relationships. The lyrics, delivered with a blend of weariness and frustration, pose a direct question to the listener or a figurative partner: 'What do you want from me?' This question is repeated throughout the song, emphasizing the singer's struggle to comprehend the desires of the other party. The mention of blood and tears suggests a deep emotional or physical toll, indicating that the singer feels drained by the demands placed upon them.

The song also touches on the theme of artistic integrity and the relationship between the artist and the audience. The lines 'Should I sing until I can't sing any more / Play these strings until my fingers are raw' reflect the often-exhausting demands of performance and the pressure to please a critical audience. Pink Floyd, known for their introspective and philosophical lyrics, may be commenting on their own experiences with the music industry and their fans' expectations.

The latter part of the song shifts to a more reflective tone, questioning the value of material success and control. The lyrics suggest that having 'anything you want' and 'everything you see' may not lead to true fulfillment. The call to 'turn and face the light' implies a need for self-examination and a move towards authenticity and away from the superficial. Overall, 'What Do You Want From Me' is a poignant exploration of human desire, the search for meaning, and the complexities of interpersonal dynamics.