Meaning of "All I Want Is You" by Barry Louis Polisar

The lyrics of "All I Want Is You" by Barry Louis Polisar convey a heartfelt longing for love and companionship. The speaker compares themselves to different natural elements throughout the song, illustrating their desire for the person they love to be by their side. The repeated phrase "All I want is you" emphasizes the simplicity and sincerity of their desire, as they express that their happiness and contentment would be fulfilled solely by the presence of their loved one.

The opening lines set the tone for the song, with the speaker envisioning themselves as a flower or a tree, symbolizing growth and natural beauty. They express that all they need is their loved one to be a source of nurturing and support, as a bee is drawn to a flower for its honey or leaves to a tree for shade. This metaphor suggests that their loved one provides them with the essential elements for their well-being and happiness.

As the song progresses, the comparisons become more diverse, yet maintain the theme of unity and dependence. The inclusion of a river, mountains, and the rumble of water symbolize the powerful attraction and connection felt towards the loved one. The speaker suggests that even in the harshness of winter, as long as their loved one is with them, they can endure anything. This highlights the strength and comfort that love brings during difficult times.

The lyrics then shift to playful comparisons, such as a wink and a nod, a seed and a pod, or a kiss and a hug. These comparisons evoke a sense of harmony and compatibility, illustrating how the speaker and their loved one perfectly complement each other. They express a desire to be intertwined with their loved one, mirroring the intimacy and closeness of a hug or the protection provided by a rug.

The song concludes with a series of comparisons that accentuate the depth of the speaker's love and devotion. They express a willingness to be the fire if their loved one is the wood, highlighting their desire to bring warmth and passion to their relationship. The line "If you were the love, I'd be the desire" emphasizes the speaker's longing and dedication to their loved one. The reference to a castle and a moat portrays the speaker's urge to protect their loved one from harm, while the mention of an ocean signifies their willingness to adapt and learn to float alongside their partner.

Overall, "All I Want Is You" encapsulates the yearning for a deep connection and a sense of unity with a loved one. The lyrics convey the speaker's longing for love, companionship, and their willingness to do whatever it takes to maintain that bond.