Rough Lover
In Search of a Rough Love: Aretha's Desire Unveiled
Lyrics
Now, listen here, girls
Addressing an audience, likely women
I’m going to tell you what I want right now
Expressing desire for something specific right away
I want a rough lover i want a man
Desire for a tough, assertive partner
I want a rough, tough lover
Emphasizing the desire for a rugged, resilient partner
And I’ll find him if I can
Determined to find this type of partner
He’s got to bite nails fight bears
Describing specific traits: resilient and strong-willed
And if I get sassy be a man who dares
Desiring a partner who can handle assertiveness
To shut me up and kiss me so I know he cares
Desire for affectionate yet assertive behavior
I want a man
Reiteration of the desire for a certain type of partner
Don’t want a mean daddy i want a boss
Preference for a certain type of authority figure
I want a mean, sweet daddy
Desiring a strong yet caring figure
Who the devil wouldn't cross
Wanting someone not to be crossed easily
He’s got to spit fire chew iron
Expressing desire for intensity and passion
Get mad and start roaring
Describing intense emotions and reactions
Like a mountain lion
Comparing to the fierceness of a mountain lion
Then whisper that he loves me
Desiring affectionate reassurance after intensity
So I know he’s mine i want a man
Desiring confirmation of belonging
I’m looking for a guy who’s brave and strong
Looking for bravery and strength but vulnerability
But weak for me
Desiring a partner who remains close
I’m looking for a guy who’ll ride around
Preference for control and companionship
But never, never set me free
Not wanting to be set free, seeking dedication
I want a rough lover i want a man
Reiteration of the desire for a tough partner
I want a rough, tough lover
Emphasizing the need for resilience with emotions
With a sentimental plan so he can kiss nice
Wanting a balance of toughness and affection
Hug tight he’s got to be sweet and gentle
Desiring affection and tenderness
Day and night but mean enough to make me
Desiring a partner who warrants respect
Wanna to treat him right
Desire to reciprocate affection
I want a man, oh yeah
Reiteration of the desire for a certain type of partner
I’m looking for a guy who’s brave and strong
Looking for a brave yet sensitive partner
But weak for me
Desiring vulnerability but strength
I’m looking for a guy who’ll ride around
Preference for companionship without freedom
But never, never set me free
Desire for dedication and commitment
I want a rough lover i want a man
Expressing the need for a resilient partner
I want a rough, tough lover
Emphasizing the desire for toughness and resilience
With a sentimental plan so he can kiss nice
Wanting a balance of toughness and tenderness
Hug tight he’s got to be sweet and gentle
Desiring affection and warmth
Day and night but mean enough to make me
Desire for a partner who earns respect
Wanna to treat him right i want a man
Desire to reciprocate respect and affection
I want a man
Reiteration of the desire for a certain type of partner
I don’t want no cream puff, baby
Rejecting a soft, delicate partner
I don’t want no butterfly i want a man
Rejecting someone flighty or indecisive
Oh, yes, I do oh, yes, I do
Reiteration of the desire for a certain type of partner
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