The song "What Do You Want" by Joan Armatrading explores themes of confusion, indecision, heartbreak, and the pain of a breakup. The lyrics express frustration towards someone who is causing turmoil and confusion to those around them by trying to appear cool and undecided. The narrator questions what this person truly wants and needs, as they seem to confuse and hurt others. The song also touches upon the narrator's personal experience with this individual. They mention how this person once professed love and made them feel special, but now they are experiencing heartache and pleading for them not to leave. The narrator acknowledges that breaking up is a sad and painful process. The lyrics also touch upon the narrator's feelings of being blinded and wary of strangers, possibly hinting at the emotional impact this relationship had on the narrator's trust and perception of others. Overall, "What Do You Want" portrays the struggle of understanding and coping with a confusing and destructive relationship, while also expressing the pain and longing associated with a breakup.
