Photograph

Def Leppard's 'Photograph' is a song that encapsulates the feeling of unrequited love and desire, set against the backdrop of rock 'n' roll. The lyrics express a deep yearning for someone who seems out of reach, a person who the singer idolizes and obsesses over through a mere photograph. The repeated line 'I don't want your photograph, I don't need your photograph' suggests a frustration with the superficiality of having only an image, and the longing for a real, tangible connection with the subject of his affection.

The song also touches on the theme of fantasy versus reality. The singer's infatuation is so intense that it invades his dreams and every aspect of his life, as seen in the lines 'I see your face every time I dream, on every page, every magazine.' However, the object of his desire is 'so wild and free, so far from me,' indicating a distance that cannot be bridged, leaving the singer with nothing but a photograph to hold onto. This unattainable fantasy creates a sense of helplessness and a craving for something more substantial.

Moreover, 'Photograph' reflects the rock 'n' roll lifestyle, where the persona is portrayed as a 'rock 'n' roll clown,' hinting at the often superficial and performative aspects of fame. The singer's public persona contrasts with his private feelings of vulnerability and longing, which are laid bare in the song. The emotional turmoil caused by this unrequited love is powerful enough to affect his identity, as he pleads for the attention of the one he desires, despite the futility of his wishes.