Craving (I Only Want What I Can't Have)
t.A.T.u
The Paradox of Desire in t.A.T.u's 'Craving (I Only Want What I Can't Have)'
t.A.T.u's song 'Craving (I Only Want What I Can't Have)' delves into the complex and often contradictory nature of human desire. The lyrics explore the idea that we are often drawn to things that are out of reach, and this unattainability fuels our longing even more. The repeated lines, 'I only want what I can't have' and 'I only need what I don't want,' highlight this paradox, suggesting a deep-seated psychological struggle where satisfaction is perpetually elusive.
The song opens with a sense of liberation and vulnerability, as the narrator describes leaving someone and experiencing a newfound freedom. However, this freedom is tinged with a sense of exposure and nakedness, seen 'only in light of day.' This imagery suggests that true freedom comes with its own set of challenges and discomforts, making the unattainable seem even more desirable. The mention of creativity soaking the soul and the plea not to be alone further emphasize the internal conflict between independence and the need for connection.
The lyrics also touch on the concept of living in the present versus worrying about the future. The line 'And consequences in the future, feeling is now' underscores the tension between immediate desires and long-term repercussions. The narrator acknowledges that while they can't predict the future, they can offer their presence and support in the present moment. This duality of wanting what is out of reach while grappling with the present reality adds layers of emotional depth to the song, making it a poignant reflection on the human condition.