Meaning of "Make Me Pure" by Robbie Williams

The lyrics of "Make Me Pure" by Robbie Williams highlight the internal struggle of the narrator as they grapple with their desire to be pure, yet their reluctance to fully let go of their vices and flaws. The repetition of the line "Oh Lord, make me pure - But not yet" emphasizes the contradictory nature of their plea for purity. The narrator acknowledges their shortcomings, such as their tendency to tell jokes and laugh at their own pain, their laziness, and their engagement in destructive behaviors like smoking and pursuing a married person.

The mention of smoking and sex as vices that are prevalent in society reflects the temptation and allure of indulging in these pleasures. The line "Smoking kills, sex sells" suggests that the narrator is aware of the consequences of their actions but is still drawn to them. They express a sense of revenge in living well, knowing that death is inevitable. This could imply that they find solace in temporary pleasures as a means of defiance against the finality of mortality.

The narrator expresses their longing for purity by stating they have stopped praying but hope this song will be enough for a higher power to guide them. The lyrics suggest a sense of humility and self-awareness, acknowledging their imperfections while also seeking forgiveness. The line "I'm not perfect but you don't mind that, do you?" reveals a desire for acceptance and understanding from a higher power.

The mention of pursuing somebody's wife reflects the narrator's temptation and their awareness that lying to a liar won't work. This showcases their own recognition of dishonesty and manipulation, even in the pursuit of love. The plea for purity becomes more urgent as they ask the Lord to make them pure, but still not yet fully ready to let go of their flawed behaviors.

Overall, the lyrics of "Make Me Pure" delve into the internal conflict of a person who desires purity but struggles to let go of their vices and imperfections. It explores themes of temptation, self-awareness, forgiveness, and the search for acceptance and guidance.