If You Like It or Not (2007 Demo)

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of intense, almost possessive infatuation. The narrator is utterly consumed by a new romantic interest, to the point of declaring all past relationships obsolete. There's a raw, urgent plea for a chance, framed by a desire to move past explanations and simply connect through action, symbolized by dancing. This isn't a gentle courtship; it's a forceful declaration of intent. The central tension lies between the narrator's overwhelming desire and the potential for the object of affection to resist or be hurt. Phrases like "Shakes me down like I'm not shaken before" and "Try to shut your eyes / And this won't hurt one bit" suggest a powerful, perhaps overwhelming, experience being initiated. The narrator acknowledges a potential for pain but frames it as a necessary step, even implying the other person might "even like it a bit." The most striking element is the repeated, stark image of dancing "On the graves, on the graves, of every girl / That I knew before you." This isn't just about moving on; it's about actively and symbolically eradicating the past. The narrator's past connections are declared "dead to me too," emphasizing the absolute nature of their current fixation. This violent metaphor underscores the all-consuming nature of their feelings. This lyrical approach is effective because it bypasses nuanced emotional exploration for raw, almost primal declaration. The repetition of the chorus, especially the "if you like it or not" line, solidifies a sense of inevitability and surrender. It captures a moment where desire is so potent it feels like an unstoppable force, making the listener feel the intensity of the narrator's singular focus.