Meaning of "What Makes A Man" by Westlife

The lyrics of "What Makes A Man" delve into the complexities of love and the challenges of letting go. The song portrays a man who is witnessing his love leaving, yet he refuses to bid her goodbye. He promises not to cry, even as tears fill his eyes, demonstrating his determination to remain strong in her absence. The lyrics suggest that while the man may seem okay with letting any other girl walk away, this particular girl holds a special place in his heart.

The chorus asks a pivotal question: "Tell me what makes a man wanna give you all his heart, smile when you're around, and cry when you're apart?" This question highlights the intensity of the emotions this man feels for the girl. He is captivated by her presence, smiling whenever she is near but feeling immense pain when she is gone. There is an element of confusion and desperation in these lines, as he longs for an understanding of what makes this love so powerful.

The second verse continues to explore the influence this girl has on the man's life. He ponders what it is about her that makes her so right for him. It is her infectious laughter and the way she looks at him with her eyes that captivate his heart. The lyrics hint at the difficulty in deciding whether she is the one he has been searching for, discussing the force she represents in his life.

The verse also touches on the dynamic of their relationship, highlighting the importance of apologies and the willingness to go to any length to bring her back. The man puts his ego aside, emphasizing the significance of genuine remorse and the possibility of reconciliation. This further adds to his struggle to let go, as he still clings to the hope of reuniting.

Mark's lines express the futility of pursuing relationships with other women when his heart belongs solely to this girl. The lyrics imply that even if others come into his life, they can never compare to the love he feels for her. He is left questioning what it takes to move on, desperately seeking answers from the girl herself.

Overall, the lyrics of "What Makes A Man" delve into the depths of love, longing, and the difficulties of moving on. It portrays a man who is unable to let go of a strong connection and seeks to understand the unique qualities that make this love so powerful.