The song "What Do We Want?" by Uncle Kracker explores themes of relationship struggles, communication breakdowns, and the search for understanding. The lyrics depict a sense of frustration and confusion within a relationship. The opening lines describe the bird's chirping outside the narrator's window, symbolizing the intrusion of outside influences into their thoughts. The birdsong serves as a metaphor for the repetitive and nagging thoughts that keep plaguing the narrator, possibly reminding them of past mistakes or unresolved issues. The narrator wakes up in an empty bed feeling alone, hinting at a disconnect between them and their partner. The line "I guess it's somethin' that I said" implies that the narrator may have said something that caused tension or distance in the relationship. They mention attempting to bridge the gap by opening a door but realizing it was a wall instead. This could suggest their attempts to communicate or resolve issues have been met with resistance or difficulty. The emotions tied to these struggles tear the narrator up inside, reflecting their inner turmoil. The chorus repeatedly asks about dreams, their meanings, and what both individuals want from each other. This showcases the narrator's desire for deeper understanding and clearer communication within the relationship. The repetition of "Where do we go?" emphasizes the uncertainty and confusion they feel about the future of their connection. In the second verse, the narrator mentions having a flight to catch but their partner is still upset about the previous night. This highlights the lingering tension and unease within the relationship, with Pandora's box being a metaphor for unresolved issues that continue to cause problems. The narrator expresses their longing to be on their partner's "right side," emphasizing their desire for unity and harmony. They acknowledge the limitations of words and how they can sometimes fail to convey true intentions. Despite their best efforts, the narrator feels helpless in resolving the conflict. The song ultimately poses the question of what both individuals truly want from each other, emphasizing the mystery and lack of clarity in their relationship. The repetition of these questions reflects the search for understanding and the narrator's yearning for a resolution. Overall, "What Do We Want?" conveys the frustration, confusion, and longing for clarity that can arise within a struggling relationship.
