Aren’t You Kind of Glad We Did?

Song Meaning

This song captures a charged moment of impulsive intimacy, where the thrill of the act clashes with the looming social consequences. The initial lines from John suggest a spontaneous, almost involuntary urge, a "disregard convention" born from an "impulse that had to be obeyed." Cynthia echoes this, acknowledging the potential damage to her "reputation" but finding no reason for "mourning," hinting at a shared defiance against societal norms like "Beacon Hill behavior." The central tension lies in the question posed repeatedly: "aren't you kind of glad we did?" This refrain highlights the immediate pleasure and "heaven, what rapture, what bliss!" experienced, juxtaposed with the anticipated judgment. Both characters admit they "thought we wouldn't," "thought we couldn't," and "probably shouldn't," underscoring the transgressive nature of their actions. Yet, the persistent question implies a shared, albeit perhaps guilty, satisfaction that outweighs the potential fallout. The lyrics cleverly play with the contrast between private ecstasy and public condemnation. John anticipates being labeled a "cad" or a "Boston blighter," while Cynthia foresees social ostracism as an "outcast" with "doubt cast" on her good name, especially with "never a sign of any chaperone." Despite these dire predictions, the recurring, almost defiant, question about being glad suggests a powerful, immediate reward that temporarily eclipses future repercussions. The final resolution, "Whatever we did, we're glad we did!" solidifies this embrace of the present moment's joy over societal approval.