Give It Away

Song Meaning

The lyrics to "Give It Away" open with an insistent, almost demanding plea, repeating "Give it away, give it away to me." This immediate repetition creates a sense of urgent desire, leaving the listener to wonder what "it" refers to—perhaps love, commitment, or the very essence of the beloved. The direct address pulls you into the speaker's passionate mindset right from the start. What makes this desire particularly compelling is the speaker's unique philosophy on love. They acknowledge the common wisdom that suggests "Soothing your heart if you give your love away," but quickly dismiss it. Declaring "I don't care if I fit that bill," the narrator instead focuses on their own determined pursuit, aiming to "make it to the top of the hill" with their love, suggesting a goal-oriented, almost possessive, approach to affection. The craft here is in the striking blend of grand, sweeping declarations and simple, tangible gestures. The speaker's love is described as "stronger than the raging sea," a powerful, almost elemental force "Riding the surf to eternity." Yet, this epic devotion is grounded by the intimate act of giving "her the flower" and thinking of her "with every hour," painting a picture of a love that is both immense and meticulously attentive. Ultimately, these lyrics are effective because they portray a love that is both fiercely immediate and deeply committed. The raw, repetitive urgency of the central refrain, combined with the clear intention to "make my wife" and the vision of a shared future "rocking and a-reeling," creates a portrait of devotion that feels unwavering. It's a love that demands, cherishes, and plans for forever, all while rejecting conventional notions of selfless giving.