All Of Me Wants All Of You

Sufjan Stevens' song 'All Of Me Wants All Of You' delves into the complexities of unrequited love and emotional disconnection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship where one partner feels neglected and used, while the other remains emotionally distant. The opening lines, 'Shall we beat this or celebrate it? You're not the one to talk things through,' set the tone for a relationship fraught with communication issues and unresolved tension. The mention of checking texts during an intimate moment underscores the emotional neglect and lack of genuine connection.

The recurring imagery of Spencer's Butte, a real location in Oregon, serves as a metaphor for the narrator's changing perspective. Initially, the narrator traces the shadow of their partner, symbolizing their attempt to understand and connect. However, the 'empty outline' signifies the realization that their partner is emotionally absent, leading to a shift in how the narrator views the relationship. The line 'Now all of me thinks less of you' encapsulates this disillusionment and the growing emotional distance.

The chorus, 'All of me wants all of you,' is a poignant expression of the narrator's longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection. Despite the emotional turmoil and feelings of being used, the narrator still desires a complete and reciprocal relationship. The reference to Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea, adds a layer of mythological depth, suggesting that the partner is as elusive and untouchable as a deity. Ultimately, the song captures the painful reality of loving someone who cannot or will not fully reciprocate, leaving the narrator feeling like a ghost, unseen and unappreciated.