The lyrics of "What Was It You Wanted" by Bob Dylan depict a conversation where the speaker is asking someone to clarify what they want and what's going on in their life. The speaker is confused and seeks understanding regarding the intentions and desires of the other person, unsure if they are the same as they were before.

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Meaning of "What Was It You Wanted" by Bob Dylan


The lyrics of "What Was It You Wanted" can be interpreted as a reflection on miscommunication and confusion in relationships. Bob Dylan's lyrics highlight the difficulty in understanding the motivations and desires of others, even in seemingly intimate moments. The repetition of the question "What was it you wanted?" suggests a sense of disconnection and the struggle to truly comprehend another person's inner world. The imagery of someone looking in the shadows and a slip of the lip adds to the sense of mystery and uncertainty. The song captures the complexity of human relationships, where motives may be unclear and intentions misunderstood. Overall, the lyrics delve into themes of communication breakdown and the challenge of truly knowing another person.