What More Can I Do

The Zombies' song 'What More Can I Do' delves into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the internal conflict that accompanies it. The lyrics express a deep yearning to fully commit to a romantic relationship, yet the protagonist feels an inexplicable barrier preventing them from doing so. This barrier is not external but rather an internal struggle, a psychological or emotional block that keeps them from loving as freely and fully as they wish. The repeated question, 'What more can I do,' underscores the frustration and helplessness felt by someone who is willing to give their all but finds themselves held back by unseen forces.

The song's lyrics also touch on the theme of self-doubt and the fear of vulnerability. The protagonist acknowledges their efforts to believe in their partner and the relationship, but something 'always keeps a hold on me.' This line suggests an internal battle between the desire to be loved and the fear of being hurt. The phrase 'burning bully inside' vividly captures the intense emotional conflict, likening it to a force that is both painful and difficult to overcome. The desire to be 'owned' by the partner indicates a longing for acceptance and belonging, yet this desire is marred by the protagonist's inability to fully let go.

The final verses of the song highlight the futility and resignation that often accompany unrequited love. The protagonist has 'said it all' and made their feelings clear, yet they are met with indifference or rejection. The 'price to pay' for such vulnerability is the emotional toll it takes, leaving the protagonist questioning what more they can do to win the love they so desperately seek. The repetition of the phrase 'What more can I do' serves as a poignant reminder of the limits of one's efforts in the face of unreciprocated affection.