That Funny Feeling

Song Meaning

The lyrics open with an intriguing pull towards a woman described as "square," yet she inspires a care "more than you should." This immediate attraction quickly evolves into a potent "funny feeling," which the narrator describes as a deceptive "lull before the storm." It's a compelling mix of allure and an undeniable sense of impending consequence. A core tension emerges between the intoxicating power of this "funny feeling" and its inherent peril. The narrator acknowledges an almost irresistible draw, yet simultaneously warns against its grip, noting it "puts such demands" on the individual. While this emotion makes the inconceivable suddenly achievable, its shared nature — "she has got that funny feeling too" — suggests a potentially volatile, mutual entanglement. The lyrics masterfully employ ambiguity, particularly with the recurring "funny feeling" itself. This vague yet potent descriptor is never explicitly defined, allowing it to encompass a spectrum of intense emotions from exhilarating empowerment to deep-seated unease. This is sharply juxtaposed with almost cinematic imagery, like the "dull familiar lull before the storm," creating a sense of inevitable, dramatic consequence. The initial description of the woman as "square" further sharpens this contrast, making her unexpected emotional impact even more striking. These lyrics resonate by tapping into the intoxicating, often contradictory nature of powerful attraction. They capture that moment when a connection feels both incredibly empowering and deeply threatening to one's autonomy. The repeated warnings, such as "Better never let her get her hands on you," ground the abstract "funny feeling" in a visceral sense of self-preservation. This makes the emotional stakes feel immediate and acutely personal, portraying desire tinged with dread.