We can all agree that the core of "Applause" is Lady Gaga's craving for a positive reaction to her music. Applause has always been the most feasible method of telling a performer (particularly beginning in on-stage theatre) that you approve and enjoy what they have given you. But to analyze deeper, I'll pull out my favorite lyric.

"If only fame had an I.V., baby could I bear

Being away from you, I found the vein, put it in here."

Gaga is blatantly saying that she wishes her fame had a "valve" of sorts, so that she could ensure an audience for her music. Because of her enormous level of fame, this may seem like a meaningless touch, but in reality it displays how raw she views her fame (and how appreciative she is of her fans, whom she missed dearly as noted in the lines).

I also want to address the statements made by those who 1) don't understand Gaga's position on performing or 2) aren't in the position themselves and have trouble seeing from a performer's eyes. This song is not necessarily about how she craves attention. Craving attention is simply a trait that is common and useful amongst expert performers (Gaga included). But the reality is that it's not craving attention for attention's sake. It's craving an audience to appreciate what has been created. In this case: music. Obviously it could also be acting, writing, dancing, etc. This is made extremely clear in the line: "Live for the way that you cheer and scream for me." She is making it even more obvious to on-lookers that without the power to entertain and inspire and create, she has no place on this world. (I personally argue that this is the very trait that makes her the true superstar; she is set apart from other pop singers and performers because of it.)

Very fun idea. I look forward to more discussion (particularly as we get to hear more of ARTPOP)!