Girl U Want
Devo
The Elusive Allure of Desire in Devo's 'Girl U Want'
Devo's 'Girl U Want' is a captivating exploration of desire and unattainable love, wrapped in the band's signature new wave sound. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a girl who is both omnipresent and elusive, symbolizing an idealized object of affection that is just out of reach. The girl is described as singing from an unseen place and sitting atop the greenest tree, suggesting a sense of purity and unattainability. This imagery creates a sense of longing and frustration, as the protagonist is constantly aware of her presence but unable to fully grasp her.
The repeated refrain, 'She's just the girl, just the girl that u want,' emphasizes the intensity of this desire. The use of 'u' instead of 'you' adds a casual, almost conversational tone, making the longing feel more personal and immediate. The lyrics also touch on the physical and emotional effects of this unfulfilled desire, with lines like 'Look at you with your mouth watering' and 'Look at you with your mind reeling.' These phrases capture the overwhelming nature of infatuation, where rational thought is often overshadowed by intense emotions.
Devo's choice of words like 'undefined love' and 'undefined lust' further highlights the ambiguous nature of this desire. It is not clear whether the protagonist's feelings are rooted in genuine affection or mere physical attraction, adding another layer of complexity to the song. The line 'Why don't we just admit it's all over' suggests a moment of resignation, acknowledging that this idealized love may never be realized. Through its catchy melody and thought-provoking lyrics, 'Girl U Want' delves into the universal experience of yearning for something—or someone—that remains just out of reach.