What Do You Want
The Yardbirds Lyrics

I want somebody here to tell me why,
The singer seeks an explanation for the recurring presence of smoke in the sky.

There's always smoke up in the sky.
The singer observes that smoke can be seen in the sky frequently.

Please don't make me want to cry,
The singer pleads to avoid situations that could incite sadness.

Detail has not been seen.
The artist notes that the cause of the smoke cannot be determined due to insufficient information.

Summer trees should all be green,
The artist believes that trees during the summer season should all possess a uniform green color.

Plain and green as they have been,
The singer recalls a time when trees were consistently green.

Sun don't ever change the scene,
The singer implies that the sun remains a constant factor and does not directly influence the current state of the trees.

Please never let them die.
The artist expresses a desire to preserve the trees and prevent them from dying.

What do you want? [Repeat: x4]
The repeated question asks for an answer that may provide clarity and insight into the situation at hand.

Sounds which soar above my ears,
The artist refers to noises that are higher in pitch and intensity than their surroundings.

Will naturally precede in years,
The singer comments on the tendency of loud sounds to emerge earlier than expected.

They only cause a flood of tears,
The artist laments the emotional impact of sudden, overwhelming sounds.

I want to turn and run.
The singer desires to leave or escape from the current environment.

Don't need someone to make my fun,
The singer asserts that they are capable of enjoying themselves without assistance from others.

Only need to see the sun,
The singer believes that the presence of the sun may improve their general mood and well-being.

I will not go and cause harm,
The artist promises not to engage in any harmful behavior or actions.

I cannot think that way.
The artist asserts that they are not capable of acting maliciously or with bad intentions.

Sit spellbound by a flickering screen,
The singer refers to being captivated by the constantly changing images on television or similar devices.

Watch the ever changing scenes,
The singer comments on the constant flux of visuals that can be witnessed through media.

Listen to the rising screams,
The artist may be referring to the loudness and intensity of the sounds being played.

Of children of today.
The artist implies that the sounds are being produced by contemporary adolescents or youth.

Lock your doors and stay within,
The artist advises others to remain indoors and secure their safety.

Upon your face the stupid grins,
The singer criticizes those who appear outwardly content or amused while danger may be present.

Penalty for unrealized sins,
The artist suggests that not taking caution during risky scenarios may result in negative consequences.

Committed on your way.
The singer implies that those who are unprepared for the potential dangers of a situation may be held accountable if disaster strikes.

What do you want? [Repeat: x6]
The repeated question may indicate a continued search for a satisfactory explanation or solution to the presented issues.