Meaning of "Girl U Want" by Devo

The meaning of "Girl U Want" revolves around the power of attraction and the complexities of desire. The woman in the song is portrayed as an enigmatic figure who exudes a captivating allure. She is depicted as unattainable yet irresistible, with a voice that calls to everyone and a presence that affects each person who encounters her. The lyrics suggest that her power lies in her elusiveness and the insatiability she stirs within others. The repeated line, "She's just the girl you want," hints at the universal nature of her appeal and the way she embodies a desire that transcends individual preferences.

The song can be interpreted as a commentary on the nature of desire itself. It explores the idea that desire often arises from a place of longing for something unattainable or unattained. The lyrical imagery of her singing from an unseen location and sitting atop the "greenest tree" adds to the mystique surrounding her. The undefined lust and mist that drips from above symbolize the intangible nature of desire and its ability to envelop and affect individuals.

The chorus, "Look at you with your mouth, it's waterin', Look at you with your mind spinnin'," portrays the impact the woman has on those who desire her. It conveys the visceral reaction she elicits, with physical responses such as salivating and mental turmoil. The lyrics suggest that the allure of the woman is so overwhelming that individuals struggle to articulate their desires. The line, "But the words get stuck on the tip of your tongue," highlights the frustration and inability to fully express the intense attraction they feel.

Overall, "Girl U Want" delves into the magnetic power of desire and how it can consume individuals. It explores themes of unattainability, longing, and the way desire can override rational thought. The song captures the universal experience of being drawn to someone who embodies the idealized version of what we want, even if we know deep down that they are unattainable.