What Can I Do?

Rufus Wainwright's song "What Can I Do?" delves into the profound sense of helplessness and sorrow that comes with witnessing the suffering of a loved one. The repeated question, "What can I do?" underscores the singer's desperation and inability to alleviate the pain of the 'bird,' a metaphor for someone fragile and in distress. This bird, too weak to fly, symbolizes a person who is struggling and calling out for help, yet the singer feels powerless to provide the necessary support.

The lyrics evoke a poignant image of a mother-child relationship, with the repeated plea, "Mama, help me to live." This line suggests a deep yearning for nurturing and protection, highlighting the universal human need for care and support in times of vulnerability. The repetition of the phrase emphasizes the urgency and intensity of the cry for help, making the listener feel the weight of the singer's emotional burden.

Wainwright's melancholic tone and the simplicity of the lyrics amplify the song's emotional impact. The starkness of the words reflects the stark reality of the situation—sometimes, despite our best intentions, we are unable to save those we love from their struggles. This song resonates with anyone who has felt the pain of watching a loved one suffer, capturing the essence of human empathy and the limits of our ability to intervene.