The song "All I Want" by Howard Jones is about the longing for connection and love in a world that can often be harsh and challenging. The lyrics mention various themes and metaphors to convey this message. The first verse talks about living life to the fullest, even though it can be painful and filled with hardships ("Ride the wild one cowboy in the rodeo"). It also references the famous Shakespearean couple, Romeo and Juliet, symbolizing an intense and passionate love. The line "Living only to consume, bruising hearts collecting gloom" suggests that people often focus on materialistic pursuits and end up hurting themselves and others. It highlights the emptiness and superficiality that can be found in society. The chorus states, "All I want is to live with you, all I want is to cry with you." Here, the singer expresses a desire for a deep emotional connection with someone, a relationship built on genuine understanding and shared experiences. The following verses mention dancing, reggae music, and fighting bigotry, representing the celebration of life and the stand against discrimination. The lines "Take away identity, parcel up what's left of me" suggest that in the face of conformity and societal pressures, the singer wants to preserve their individuality and uniqueness. The song concludes with the repetition of the chorus, emphasizing the yearning for genuine emotional connection and the acknowledgment that, despite the challenges, it is still worth pursuing. Overall, "All I Want" is a song that explores the yearning for love, connection, and authenticity in a world that can often feel shallow and isolating. It encourages listeners to hold onto their true selves and to seek meaningful relationships.
