The song "Whatever's For Us" by Joan Armatrading is a reflective and introspective piece about love, pride, and life. It delves into the themes of expectation, receiving, giving, and the choices we make in relationships and in our own lives. The lyrics begin by discussing love, where the narrator is asked how much they should give. It implies that love is not about measuring or quantifying, but rather about expecting and receiving what is deserved. The line "Take what you could, give what you must" suggests that love should be reciprocal, with both parties giving and receiving in equal measure. It also implies that they should give what is necessary rather than trying to give more than they can. The chorus, "Whatever's for us, for us" emphasizes the idea that love should be personal and unique to each individual. It implies that love is not a one-size-fits-all concept, but rather something that is tailored to the specific needs and desires of the people involved. Moving on, the song explores the concept of pride. The narrator questions why pride is important and what it should be. It suggests that pride should be based on individual beliefs and values, rather than external expectations. The line "Do what you will, say what you must" signifies the importance of staying true to oneself and not compromising one's integrity in order to fit societal norms or expectations. The song then shifts to the topic of life and how one should navigate it. The narrator questions whether they are right to be feared or loved by others. They encourage avoiding lies and embracing trust, indicating that honesty and trust are essential in life. The phrase "Heed not a lie, fear not to trust" represents the desire for authenticity and openness, despite the potential risks or difficulties. Overall, "Whatever's For Us" is a song that encourages individuality, authenticity, and honesty in love, pride, and life. It encourages listeners to embrace personal truths and not be swayed by external pressures or expectations.
