Stick And Poke (What Am I Gonna Do)

Song Meaning

The narrator grapples with the persistent presence of a "stick and poke tattoo," a metaphor for something unwanted yet deeply ingrained. The opening lines immediately establish a tone of bewildered resignation, posing a question that echoes throughout the track: "What am I gonna do about you?" This isn't just about ink on skin; it's about an experience or a person that has left an indelible, perhaps regrettable, impression. The central tension lies in the narrator's passive acceptance of this mark, articulated by "I let you happen to me." This phrase suggests a lack of agency, a feeling of being overwhelmed or swept into a situation. The tattoo, or what it represents, is not a conscious choice but something that occurred *to* them, leaving them now to deal with the consequences. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of external disapproval and dismissal. Friends suggest forgetting, a parent cries, another parent ignores, and even the law is powerless. This widespread reaction highlights the perceived negativity or shame associated with the "stick and poke," amplifying the narrator's own internal struggle and isolation. The mark, though small, has clearly "left a mark" in a much larger sense. Ultimately, the song's power comes from its raw portrayal of dealing with an unwanted, permanent fixture. The simple, repetitive question underscores a feeling of being stuck, unable to undo what has been done. It’s a poignant expression of facing the lasting impact of past events or relationships, even when others don't understand or acknowledge the depth of the struggle.