Meaning of "If She Knew What She Wants" by The Bangles

"If She Knew What She Wants" delves into the frustrations of a relationship where the protagonist feels like he is constantly trying to meet his partner's expectations, but she herself is unsure of what she truly wants. The narrator longs for his partner to have a clear vision of her desires, so he could fulfill them. However, she seems to constantly change her mind and is never satisfied. The song implies that the protagonist believes his partner's values are "corrupted," suggesting that she may be easily influenced by external factors or lacks a strong sense of self. Despite this, the protagonist acknowledges that she is open to change and tries to understand her perspective. The lyrics also highlight the protagonist's frustration with the unpredictability of the relationship, as he witnesses moments of contentment followed by sudden bouts of sadness from his partner. It becomes apparent that she herself cannot explain her emotions or needs.

The song also touches on the idea of societal expectations and the pressure to conform. The verse "Some have a style, That they work hard to refine, So they walk a crooked line" suggests that there are people who try to fit into predetermined molds and follow societal norms, while the protagonist's partner refuses to conform. The protagonist admires her individuality and wishes she would understand the appeal of conformity and striving to fit into certain expectations. However, he recognizes that this is not who she is and that she doesn't need to change for him or anyone else.

Overall, "If She Knew What She Wants" highlights the challenges of being with someone who is uncertain about their desires and constantly changing their mind. It explores the frustration and longing to fulfill someone's needs when they themselves are unsure of what those needs are. The lyrics emphasize the importance of self-discovery and understanding in relationships, as well as the acceptance of individual differences and personal growth.