Meaning of "I Wanna Be Yours" by John Cooper Clarke

The meaning behind John Cooper Clarke's "I Wanna Be Yours" is a declaration of love and a desire for complete unity and devotion with the listener. The lyrics use metaphorical language to express the narrator's willingness to become anything the listener desires, showcasing their dedication and selflessness in the relationship.

The repeated phrase "I wanna be yours" emphasizes the narrator's deep longing to merge their identity with the listener. By comparing themselves to a vacuum cleaner, they convey their desire to clean up any mess and provide support. Wanting to be a Ford Cortina that will never rust signifies their promise of unwavering loyalty and dependability. The reference to being a coffee pot showcases their willingness to cater to the listener's desires, ready to serve them exactly as they prefer.

The narrator continues by expressing their desire to be the listener's raincoat, providing protection during difficult times. Their wish to be a dreamboat symbolizes the desire to be the listener's escape and source of joy. The mention of being a teddy bear signifies their desire to provide comfort and be a constant companion.

As the lyrics progress, the narrator expresses their desire to be the listener's electric meter, signifying their never-ending presence and availability. Wanting to be the electric heater emphasizes their role in keeping the listener warm and nurturing. Their willingness to be the setting lotion that holds the listener's hair in place showcases their attention to detail and commitment to taking care of even the smallest things for the listener.

The closing line, comparing their devotion to the deep Atlantic ocean, underlines the extent of their love and commitment. The ocean is seen as vast and unending, symbolizing the narrator's unwavering and boundless devotion towards the listener.

In summary, "I Wanna Be Yours" is a love song that showcases the narrator's willingness to do anything and become anything for the listener. It conveys a sense of selflessness and complete dedication in the pursuit of unity and love within a relationship.