Meaning of "Attention" by The Weeknd

The lyrics of "Attention" delve into themes of emotional disconnect and the superficiality of certain relationships. The narrator expresses their disappointment and confusion over their partner's behavior, asking where things went wrong and how to rekindle their love. The partner's need for attention becomes the central issue, as they only seem to notice the narrator's absence rather than their presence. This lack of emotional depth is contrasted with the physical aspect of the relationship, highlighted through lines like "Only thing left is the sex now" and "Only see me on the TV or the bed now."

The narrator desires a genuine connection that extends beyond physical intimacy, yearning for emotional trust and understanding. They acknowledge that their partner's constant need for attention will never be satisfied, stating, "The only problem is you'll never get enough." This suggests that their partner is always in pursuit of something more, unable to find contentment within the relationship. The repetition of phrases like "you're only looking for attention" emphasizes this revelation, reinforcing the notion that their partner's motivations are solely focused on their own needs.

The Weeknd explores the themes of longing, disappointment, and the quest for a deeper connection throughout the song. It portrays the frustrations that arise when one person seeks an emotional bond while the other prioritizes attention and physical fulfillment. The lyrics capture the underlying emptiness of a relationship built solely on surface-level interactions, highlighting the importance of trust, communication, and emotional reciprocity.