How About You?

Song Meaning

Nellie McKay's rendition of "How About You?" isn't just a breezy stroll down Tin Pan Alley; it's a cleverly understated exploration of vulnerability and the tentative dance of connection. The song, on the surface, is a simple catalog of pleasures: Gershwin tunes, potato chips, moonlight, and the comforting predictability of holding hands in a darkened movie theater. But beneath this veneer of amiable sharing lies a deeper, more psychologically astute observation. The repeated question, "How about you?" isn't merely an invitation to compare notes on favorite things. It's a subtle probe, a cautious attempt to gauge compatibility and, perhaps, to test the waters of emotional reciprocity. In this reading of the "How About You" lyrics, McKay highlights the human need to mirror ourselves in others and to find validation in shared experience. McKay's song meaning extends beyond a simple 'likes' comparison. The name-dropping of Walter Huston (and later, Walter Brennan) is particularly interesting. These character actors, not matinee idols, suggest an appreciation for substance over superficiality, for the quirky and the genuine. This detail subtly elevates the song's intent. It's not just about finding someone who enjoys the same snacks or pastimes; it's about finding someone who appreciates the same kind of understated beauty and character in the world. It speaks to a desire for a connection that goes beyond the surface, hinting at a longing for intellectual and emotional resonance. Ultimately, the brilliance of "How About You?" lies in its deceptive simplicity. It's a charming tune, but McKay uses the song to expose the tender, sometimes awkward, process of reaching out to another person. The repeated question becomes a mantra of sorts, a hopeful yet hesitant inquiry into the possibility of shared joys and compatible sensibilities. In her interpretation of this classic song, Nellie McKay turns a lighthearted query into a poignant reflection on the human desire for connection and understanding.