Gertrude Stein

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of Gertrude Stein as an effortlessly magnetic figure, contrasting her with men who face rejection when trying to approach women. The narrator observes that Stein's mere presence, her "stare," was enough to captivate, preventing her from ever being labeled an "asshole" in the way others might be. This sets up a playful, almost mythical portrayal of her allure, particularly within the bohemian atmosphere of "gay Paree." The central tension arises from this idealized image versus the subtle hints of dissent. While the narrative emphasizes Stein's universal appeal, the exceptions – "Except by Alice" and "Except perhaps by Ernest Hemingway" – introduce a layer of wry humor and suggest that even icons have their critics, or perhaps just their partners who are privy to less flattering moments. The repetition of "girls, they could not resist her stare" reinforces this almost supernatural charm. The most striking craft element is the persistent, almost chant-like repetition of the phrase "Gertrude Stein, she was never called an asshole." This refrain, juxtaposed with the specific, vivid imagery of girls turning "the color / Of a fresh avocado" and cruising in a "pink El Dorado," creates a unique blend of the mundane and the extraordinary. The contrast between the bluntness of the word "asshole" and the poetic descriptions of Stein's effect highlights the song's playful, slightly subversive tone. Ultimately, these lyrics resonate because they offer a charming, albeit fictionalized, narrative of effortless charisma. The writing uses simple, direct language to build a memorable image of Stein, while the carefully placed exceptions to her unblemished reputation provide a wink to the listener, acknowledging that even legendary figures have their complexities. It’s this balance of idealized admiration and understated reality that makes the portrayal so engaging.