The Meaning Behind The Song: If She Knew What She Wants by The Bangles
When it comes to music, there are some songs that have a deeper meaning than what meets the ear. The Bangles’ hit song “If She Knew What She Wants” is one of those tracks that delves into the complexities of relationships and the struggle to understand one’s own desires. Released in 1986 as part of their album “Different Light,” this song showcases the band’s signature blend of catchy pop music with introspective lyrics.
The Basics
| Title | If She Knew What She Wants |
|---|---|
| Artist | The Bangles |
| Writer/Composer | Jules Shear |
| Album | Different Light (1986) |
| Release Date | January 2, 1986 |
| Genre | Pop |
| Producer | David Kahne |
Now that we have the basics out of the way, let’s dive into the meaning behind “If She Knew What She Wants.”
The Lyrics
The song starts off with the chorus, which sets the tone for the rest of the track. The line “If she knew what she wants, he’d be giving it to her” is repeated multiple times, emphasizing the frustration and confusion felt by the narrator. It highlights the disconnect between two people in a relationship, where one person is searching for something they can’t quite define, and the other is desperately trying to meet those unspoken needs.
In the verses, the lyrics paint a picture of a woman who appears content one moment but is overcome with inexplicable emotions the next. The line “No sense thinking I could rehabilitate her when she’s fine, fine, fine” suggests that the narrator recognizes the futility of trying to change someone who is already content with who they are. It’s a realization that sometimes, we can’t save or fix someone, no matter how much we may want to help them.
The bridge of the song introduces the idea of personal style and individuality. The lyrics speak of others who have a distinct style that they have worked hard to refine. It contrasts with the woman in question, who seems to resist conforming to any particular mold. She doesn’t understand why anyone would put in the effort to fit in when they can simply be themselves and soar above societal expectations.
My Personal Connection
Listening to “If She Knew What She Wants” takes me back to a time when I was struggling to understand my own desires and what I truly wanted in a relationship. It reminds me of the times when I felt torn between wanting someone who could give me everything and wanting nothing at all. The lyrics resonate with the internal conflict that comes with navigating the complexities of love and personal fulfillment.
Like the narrator in the song, I often found myself searching for something I couldn’t quite put into words. I longed for a partner who could understand my needs without me having to spell them out, but at the same time, I struggled to define those needs for myself. It was a frustrating and confusing time in my life, and “If She Knew What She Wants” served as a musical companion during those moments.
The beauty of music is its ability to evoke emotions and capture the complexities of the human experience. “If She Knew What She Wants” does just that, delving into the struggle to understand our desires and the challenges we face in relationships. It’s a timeless song that continues to resonate with listeners, even after all these years.
In conclusion, “If She Knew What She Wants” by The Bangles is more than just a catchy pop song. It explores the intricacies of relationships and the difficulty in understanding one’s own desires. Its relatable lyrics and memorable melody have made it a classic in the band’s discography. So the next time you find yourself pondering the complexities of life and love, give this song a listen and let it guide you through your own journey of self-discovery.
