Meaning of "Whatever You Want It to Be" by Palisades

The lyrics of "Whatever You Want It to Be" depict the aftermath of a failed relationship, where the speaker reflects on their past mistakes and attempts to make amends. The repetition of the phrase "Boys talkin' down, I got them diamonds in my mouth" suggests a sense of defiance and a desire to prove oneself despite the negative opinions of others. The speaker acknowledges that they were the cause of the relationship's demise, becoming what their partner hated and feared. This realization is accompanied by a sense of regret and longing to fix things.

The chorus reveals the speaker's belief that they and their partner were meant to be together, with the partner being the very breath the speaker relied upon. However, the partner has chosen to distance themselves, believing they are "better alone." This rejection has left the speaker in a state of darkness and caught in a constant loop of memories. Despite their efforts to mend the relationship, the partner refuses to let them back in, leaving the speaker feeling helpless and trapped.

The metaphor of smoke in the lungs symbolizes the toxic and self-destructive nature of the relationship. The speaker acknowledges that their selfish motivations played a role in tearing them apart. The repetition of the line "Now I'm caught in between every memory" emphasizes the speaker's inability to move on from the past and escape the pain of the failed relationship. The use of the phrase "foreign tongue" and "different story on a different page" suggests a fundamental disconnect between the speaker and their partner, highlighting the irreparable nature of their relationship.

Overall, the lyrics of "Whatever You Want It to Be" explore themes of regret, self-reflection, and the inability to let go. The song captures the raw emotions experienced when one realizes they have become someone they never intended to be and must face the consequences of their actions. The refusal of the partner to reconcile further intensifies the feelings of darkness and isolation. It serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of not addressing and resolving issues within a relationship.