All I Want Is Everything

Def Leppard's song 'All I Want Is Everything' delves into the complexities of longing, regret, and the struggle to communicate deep emotions. The lyrics paint a picture of a person caught in a web of conflicting desires and unspoken truths. The opening lines reveal a sense of paralysis, where the protagonist is torn between leaving and staying, burdened by things left unsaid. This internal conflict is further emphasized by the metaphor of a 'sinking ship,' symbolizing a relationship or situation that is beyond saving, yet still clung to out of desperation or hope.

The chorus, 'All I want is everything,' encapsulates the essence of the song. It speaks to an insatiable desire for completeness and fulfillment, which seems unattainable. The juxtaposition of 'yesterdays' and 'tomorrow never comes' highlights a sense of stagnation and the inability to move forward. This longing for 'everything' is not just material but emotional and spiritual, as indicated by the yearning for the 'feel of your touch.' The protagonist is trapped in a cycle of regret and missed opportunities, unable to bridge the gap between past and future.

The song also touches on themes of self-deception and the difficulty of facing one's own truths. The lines 'It's hard to hold your head up when you're kneeling down to pray' and 'I'm running out of lies' suggest a struggle with honesty and integrity. The imagery of an 'angel whose wings hide the sun' adds a layer of complexity, implying that what seems like doubt or darkness might actually be a form of protection or denial. Ultimately, the song is a poignant exploration of human vulnerability, the quest for meaning, and the painful realization that some desires may remain forever unfulfilled.