What It Is

Song Meaning

Wilson Pickett's "What It Is" operates on a deceptively simple lyrical plane, driven by repetition and a call-and-response structure that burrows into the listener's consciousness. The insistent questioning – "What it is, what it is, what it is" – isn't necessarily seeking a concrete answer. Instead, it seems to be circling a fundamental truth about perception and missed opportunities. The lyrics hint at a fragile reality, one where closing your eyes or ears leads to irrevocable loss: "if you close your eyes, I may never see you," and "if you close your ear, you may never hear." The meaning drifts into the territory of awareness, suggesting that the essential things in life are often right in front of us, requiring only that we remain open to experiencing them. This openness is further emphasized in the lines about thinking you're right when you're wrong, or big when you're small, suggesting a need for humility and self-awareness. Pickett's message transcends mere observation; it urges immediate action. The verse "Look right now while you have a chance" serves as a stark reminder of life's fleeting nature. The "tender look" mentioned in the background vocals may represent vulnerability, authenticity, or perhaps even love, all of which require presence and attention to truly grasp. The acknowledgement that "you won't find it in the dictionary" implies that the 'what it is' isn't something easily defined or intellectualized. It's experiential, felt, and deeply personal. The song pivots from a warning to an affirmation in the latter half, shifting from "what it is" to "let it live." The transition from questioning to urging hints at acceptance and embracing the present moment. The final chorus, repeatedly chanting "Let it live, what it is, let it live," suggests a surrender to the unknown and a choice to fully experience whatever life presents. It's an embrace of the raw, undefined 'what it is' that surrounds us, acknowledging its power and potential. Ultimately, Wilson Pickett's "What It Is" is a profound exploration of perception, presence, and the vital importance of remaining open to the ephemeral beauty and truth that life offers in each passing moment.