The lyrics of "Whatever" depict a person who lives in their own imagination, feeling misunderstood by the outside world and disconnected from their parents. They prefer to be alone, creating their own world of happiness to cope with the pain of rejection and neglect. The repetition of "Whatever you want, whatever you do, wherever you go, whatever you say" reflects a sense of resignation and defiance towards societal expectations.

Meaning of "Whatever" by Hüsker Dü

The lyrics of "Whatever" delve into the themes of alienation, disconnection, and creating one's own reality in response to feeling rejected and misunderstood. The protagonist retreats into their imagination to find solace, away from the world that fails to accept them for who they are. The focus on the character's relationship with their parents underscores the idea of unmet expectations and a desire for unconditional love that is not received. The repeated refrain of "Whatever you want, whatever you do" exudes a sense of apathy towards societal norms and an assertion of individuality in the face of rejection. Ultimately, the song portrays a poignant message about finding refuge in one's inner world when the external reality proves to be too harsh and unwelcoming.