Meaning of "You Can't Get What You Want (Till You Know What You Want)" by Joe Jackson

"You Can't Get What You Want (Till You Know What You Want)" delves into the concept of self-awareness and the importance of knowing oneself in order to attain fulfillment in life. The lyrics highlight the common experience of feeling lost and lonely, but they suggest that this state of mind is often a product of our own thoughts rather than reality. The line "Sometimes you think someone is the one and only, can't you see it could be you and me?" implies that we may project our desires onto someone else, believing they hold the key to our happiness. However, the song urges us to explore our own desires and aspirations, as only then can we truly know what we want.

The repetition of the line "You can't get what you want till you know what you want" serves as a powerful reminder that without self-awareness, true satisfaction will remain elusive. The lyrics acknowledge that we may keep ourselves occupied and reach out for various things in the hope of finding fulfillment, but this search will be in vain if we lack clarity. The line "Sometimes you can't see that all you need is one thing" emphasizes the simplicity of finding contentment once we have identified our true desires.

The notion that self-discovery takes time is also highlighted in the lyrics. The phrase "But it can take some time, but at least I'm here in line" suggests that while the journey to self-realization may be lengthy, it is crucial to be patient and remain open to the process. The repeated refrain at the end of the song emphasizes the necessity of knowing what we want and reinforces the idea that self-awareness is the key to achieving our desires.

Overall, "You Can't Get What You Want (Till You Know What You Want)" offers a reflection on the importance of self-discovery for personal fulfillment. It encourages listeners to delve deep within themselves, explore their wants and needs, and find clarity before pursuing their goals.