The song "All I Want To Do" by UB40 expresses the frustration and dissatisfaction of the narrator with their work and life situation. They admit that they don't enjoy their job, but they acknowledge that they need the money it brings. Despite the financial necessity, their life feels like a joke and lacks humor or enjoyment. The lyrics also touch upon the feeling of being constantly controlled and told what to do by others. The narrator longs for the simple desire to stay at home with someone they care about, away from the demands and pressures of the outside world. The repetition of the line "I don't like the work but true I need the money" highlights the conflict between personal happiness and financial stability. The narrator recognizes that their job is taking a toll on their health and overall well-being, but they feel trapped by the need to earn a living. The desire for escape and freedom is emphasized through the imagery of being on an island in the sun. The phrase "I wouldn't have to worry how to get things done" reflects the longing for a simpler and carefree existence where responsibilities and the daily grind no longer burden them. Overall, "All I Want To Do" portrays a sense of dissatisfaction with the working life and the yearning for a more fulfilling and meaningful existence outside the constraints of societal expectations and financial obligations.
