Song Meaning
The lyrics paint a surreal, almost ominous picture of something new approaching, described as a "new car" that "makes a noise." This arrival is adorned with "kittens painted all over it," suggesting a deceptive or unsettling innocence. The imagery of a "new kind of fur" that is "cleaner, but with a unique smell" hints at something artificial or subtly wrong beneath a polished surface. This sets a tone of anticipation mixed with unease.
The central tension arises from the contrast between the seemingly benign "kittens" and the implication that "one of these kittens is not prepared to have a good time." This isolated kitten, "away from the crowd," is specifically called "your kind of kitten," suggesting a personal, perhaps reluctant, connection to this impending, strange arrival. The narrator then urges the listener to "climb into that car and to shake the paw of destiny," framing this as an unavoidable, significant moment.
The most striking craft element is the abrupt, almost parodic denial of any sinister intent: "No... no... They Might Be Giants are not Satanists." This self-aware, meta-commentary directly addresses potential misinterpretations, dismissing them with a plea to "listen to the sound of my voice" and "put away your big blue cigars." This defiant, playful dismissal of serious accusations, followed by the grand announcement "make way... for They Might Be Giants!," creates a jarring, ironic effect, highlighting the band's unique, often absurd, approach to their own presentation.
These lyrics are effective because they build a bizarre, compelling narrative that feels both specific and strangely universal in its evocation of facing the unknown. The juxtaposition of cute imagery with unsettling descriptions, coupled with the band's own meta-commentary on their perceived persona, creates a memorable and thought-provoking introduction that perfectly encapsulates their distinctive artistic voice.
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