I Would Do Anything For Love (But I Won't Do That)

Meat Loaf's "I Would Do Anything For Love (But I Won't Do That)" is a powerful rock ballad that explores the complexities of love and commitment. The song, which became one of Meat Loaf's signature tracks, is known for its dramatic musical arrangement and passionate vocals. The lyrics express a deep and resolute love, with the protagonist willing to go to great lengths for the person they love, even to the point of facing hellish challenges or making grand sacrifices.

However, the song is also famous for its ambiguous refrain, "but I won't do that," which has sparked much debate among listeners about what 'that' refers to. The verses suggest that 'that' could be anything that goes against the protagonist's principles or the true nature of love, such as lying, giving up, or failing to stand by their partner. The song implies that while love is powerful and can drive a person to do almost anything, there are still moral and personal boundaries that cannot be crossed, even for love.

The latter part of the song features a dialogue between the protagonist and their lover, where the lover asks if the protagonist will fulfill various romantic and fantastical requests. The protagonist agrees to most but draws the line at actions that would lead to betrayal or the end of their integrity. This reinforces the theme that true love is not just about grand gestures, but also about respect, trust, and understanding the limits of what one can promise.