The song "I Who Have Nothing" is a ballad originally written in Italian by Carlo Donida and Giulio Rapetti, and was later translated into English by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. The English version became popularized by various artists, including Gladys Knight & the Pips. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a person who feels unworthy and lacks material possessions compared to someone else who can offer riches and luxury. Despite not being able to provide those things, the narrator expresses deep love and admiration for the person they are addressing. In the first verse, the narrator describes themselves as a "no one" with "nothing to give" but still confesses their love. They acknowledge that the person they love is being showered with diamonds and other extravagant gifts by someone else, but emphasize that true love cannot be bought. The chorus repeats the declaration of love, emphasizing the narrator's deep feelings for the person. The following verse suggests that the other person can take their love interest to fancy places, while the narrator can only watch from outside. This highlights the narrator's feelings of inadequacy and longing. In the bridge, the narrator reveals the pain they feel when they see the person they love dancing with someone else. Despite their heartache, they affirm that it is they, not the person they are addressing, who truly loves them. The song concludes with a powerful repetition of the chorus, emphasizing the narrator's role as the one who loves and needs the person they are singing to, despite their lack of material possessions. Overall, "I Who Have Nothing" is a poignant and emotional song that explores themes of love, self-worth, and the contrast between material wealth and true emotional connection.
