The Things We Can Do

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of a transactional encounter, framed by a boastful, almost detached perspective. The narrator seems to relish in the attention he receives, highlighting his desirability and the perceived shortcomings of another man. There's a clear power dynamic at play, with the narrator positioning himself as the superior option, offering a fleeting escape from dissatisfaction. The central tension lies in the contrast between the narrator's aggressive, almost clinical approach to intimacy and the implied emotional needs of the woman. Phrases like "tryna get in her like cancer" and "get in her head like dandruff" suggest a desire for invasive control rather than genuine connection. Yet, the woman is depicted as seeking him out for comfort and attention, creating a complex dynamic of desire and dissatisfaction. The wordplay here is particularly striking, blending crude sexual imagery with unsettling comparisons. The repeated use of "cancer" and "dandruff" is jarring, attempting to inject a sense of urgency or even a perverse intimacy into the sexual act. This deliberate shock value seems to be a key element of the narrator's persona, aiming to be memorable and dominant. Ultimately, these lyrics are effective because they capture a raw, unvarnished portrayal of a particular kind of sexual encounter. The bluntness and aggressive metaphors, while uncomfortable, create a vivid and unflinching snapshot of a moment driven by immediate gratification and a sense of power. The narrator’s self-assured, almost predatory tone makes the scene feel both specific and unsettlingly common.