Meaning of "Do What You Gotta Do" by Roberta Flack

The lyrics of "Do What You Gotta Do" convey a sense of acceptance, selflessness, and unconditional love. The narrator understands that their partner may struggle to love someone like them, possibly due to their flaws or unconventional nature. Rather than holding onto them out of desperation or possessiveness, the narrator gives them the freedom to do what they need to do. They bear no grudge or resentment but instead acknowledges their own role in the situation, admitting that it is their fault for the state of their heart and accepting the possibility of losing their partner.

The narrator's love is portrayed as deep and selfless, surpassing the love and care even from the partner's own family. It is a love that accepts the imperfections and embraces their partner's true self. The line, "The part of you that they'll never see, is the part you've shown to me," suggests that the partner may present a different side of themselves to others, while feeling comfortable and safe enough to reveal their true self to the narrator.

The song also touches upon the judgment and interference of others in the relationship. The narrator acknowledges that people may criticize their partner's treatment of them, but they dismiss those judgments, saying that no one truly understands the depth of their connection. The line, "They got ways to make you feel so bad, I guess they got no way to know," highlights the narrator's belief that outsiders cannot fully comprehend the complexities and nuances of their relationship.

Overall, "Do What You Gotta Do" explores themes of love, acceptance, selflessness, and the complexities of relationships. It advocates for understanding, freedom, and the ability to let go with grace, even when it may result in heartbreak.