The song is told from Spock’s point of view, to Kirk, as Spock dies in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. The song’s name is a reference to Spock’s line “The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few or the one”.
You were there for those reasons uncounted
Through all trials by me you did stand
I was difficult, silent and stubborn
And I wish I could now reach your hand
I am glad you respect my decision
Although there was no decision to me
There were none left but old friends and children
And I could not let their deaths weigh on me
I am hurt by your tears, but I see they must fall
I cannot take your sorrow away
But grieve not for my loss, for the choice was my own
And we must all face death in our own way
So farewell, my t'hy'la, my captain
Though I shall never be far from your side
I will remember and cherish the friendship
That I always found there in your eyes
For The Needs Of The One was written by Julia Ecklar.