The song "What Do You Want From Me Tonight?" by Sidney Gish explores themes of social anxiety, self-doubt, and feeling out of place in social situations. The lyrics depict the internal turmoil of the narrator while attending a social gathering. The song begins with the narrator receiving advice, possibly from a friend, asking them to sit down and be calm. However, the narrator feels trapped and overwhelmed by their own thoughts, all while others perceive them as simply being shy. They question what others expect from them and why they feel the need to fit in. The chorus reveals the conflicting emotions within the narrator. They express being invited to the event, yet also feeling terrified. They admit to sitting and staring across the room for a long time, unsure of what they truly desire. Their back against the wall symbolizes the feeling of being trapped and unable to escape the pressure and expectations surrounding them. The second verse delves deeper into the narrator's insecurities. They worry that being polite and overly nice may come across as insincere or fake to others. They also express self-consciousness about their voice and physical appearance, feeling as though they don't fit in or belong. These thoughts contribute to their anxiety and desire to disappear. Towards the end of the song, the narrator acknowledges that their physical presence, being tall, prevents them from trying to hide or shrink away from the situation. They still feel terrified despite being invited, emphasizing the internal struggle they face. Overall, "What Do You Want From Me Tonight?" captures the confusion and discomfort experienced by individuals with social anxiety. Sidney Gish poetically conveys the feeling of being caught between wanting to be a part of the social scene and feeling overwhelmed by it, ultimately highlighting the internal struggle and desire for acceptance and understanding.
