Meaning of "I (Who Have Nothing)" by Joe Cocker

The lyrics of "I (Who Have Nothing)" delve into themes of unrequited love, longing, and the contrast between material possessions and emotional connection. The narrator acknowledges their own lack of material wealth and social status, feeling like they have nothing to offer compared to someone else who buys the person they love diamonds and can take them to expensive places. However, the narrator asserts that their love is genuine and deep, transcending material possessions. They are willing to sacrifice their own happiness to see the person they love happy, even if it means watching them with someone else. The lyrics paint a picture of unfulfilled desire and yearning, with the narrator being an outsider looking in on a love that they cannot fully participate in. It speaks to the universal experience of feeling inadequate or unworthy in the face of perceived competition, but also highlights the power of sincere love and emotional connection. Ultimately, the message of the song is that love cannot be measured by material possessions or external circumstances, but by the depth of one's emotions and the willingness to sacrifice for the happiness of the loved one.