Meaning of "What Do You Want the Girl to Do" by Lowell George

"What Do You Want the Girl to Do" delves into the dynamics of a troubled relationship where the narrator's actions are causing emotional harm to the woman involved. The lyrics suggest that the narrator is aware of their partner's devotion and willingness to endure his behavior. This is evident in lines such as "She knows what you are, still she'll be your queen" and "She waits for you patiently." Despite this awareness, the narrator seems conflicted and unsure of how to handle the situation.

The repetition of the line "What do you want the girl to do" throughout the song expresses the narrator's sense of confusion and frustration. It implies a lack of understanding on the narrator's part about what the woman desires and how he is responsible for breaking her emotionally. Additionally, the line "Don't you know you're breaking the child in two" highlights the vulnerability and fragility of the woman's emotions, emphasizing the negative impact the narrator's actions have on her well-being.

The lyrics also touch upon themes of unrequited love and longing. The woman's desire to be "yours and yours alone, eternally" suggests that she craves a deep connection and commitment from the narrator. However, the narrator appears distant and unable to fully reciprocate her feelings, causing her heartache. The repeated use of the word "eternally" points to her longing for a lasting relationship, but the narrator's actions suggest that he may not be capable of fulfilling that desire.

Overall, "What Do You Want the Girl to Do" addresses the complexities of a one-sided relationship where the woman involved is left yearning for a deeper connection, while the narrator struggles with his own conflicting emotions and inability to meet her needs. The song explores the themes of vulnerability, emotional turmoil, and the struggles of communication within a relationship.