Meaning of "For What It's Worth" by Stevie Nicks

The song "For What It's Worth" reflects the emotions and experiences of a clandestine love affair. The opening lines convey a sense of joy and excitement as the singer expresses gratitude for the opportunity to sing, dance, and be a part of this forbidden romance. The secrecy of the relationship is emphasized by the fact that only a few people knew about it and did not speak about it, making it seemingly contagious and intriguing.

As the song progresses, the lyrics delve into the depth of the relationship. The singer confesses that the person they are involved with saved their life, suggesting that this love affair brought them a sense of purpose or pulled them out of a difficult situation. The impact of this person's actions resonates deeply with the singer, leaving a permanent imprint on their life. The gratitude expressed is heartfelt and genuine.

Despite the undeniable connection between the singer and the other person, the lyrics also acknowledge the limitations and transience of the relationship. They both knew it couldn't last, which created a sense of hardship and sorrow. Their love was like watching cars fly by from a window, a fleeting and temporary experience. The lyrics convey the bittersweet emotions that come with knowing that something beautiful and meaningful has an expiration date.

The repeated lines towards the end of the song reinforce the sincerity of the singer's gratitude and emphasize the impact the other person had on their life. The act of leaving a current partner, packing up and driving to the other person's house with good intentions brings clarity to the depth of emotions involved. It represents a willingness to take risks and pursue what truly matters, even if it may not be entirely "worth" it in the grand scheme of things.

Overall, "For What It's Worth" depicts a passionate, forbidden love affair that saves the singer's life but ultimately comes with the understanding that it cannot endure. It explores the complexities of human connections, juxtaposing joy and sadness, gratitude and longing.