What Do You Want To Be

Slash's song "What Do You Want To Be" delves into the frustration and disillusionment with someone who is constantly chasing trends and superficial validation. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who is perceived as naive and out of touch, despite their age and experiences. The repeated question, "What the hell do you want to be," underscores the singer's exasperation with this individual's lack of genuine identity and purpose.

The song criticizes the superficiality of following trends and attending parties that lack substance. The line, "I can't stand the parties you attend," suggests a disdain for the shallow social circles and the performative nature of such gatherings. The mention of being "underground" and collecting sympathy hints at a facade of being alternative or misunderstood, which the singer sees through and finds insincere.

Furthermore, the lyrics touch on the theme of isolation and the fear of facing reality. The person in question hides away, avoiding the outside world, possibly to maintain their carefully curated image. The singer's plea for them to "climb out of your own shell" and face the truth reflects a desire for authenticity and self-awareness. The song ultimately questions the value of living a life dictated by trends and external validation, urging a deeper introspection and a more meaningful existence.