Meaning of "You Know What to Do" by Carly Simon

"You Know What to Do" explores the complexities and contradictions of a passionate and tumultuous romantic relationship. The narrator starts by acknowledging their partner's attractiveness and the attention they receive from others, questioning why their partner chose them amidst many other options. The narrator seems to have been promised freedom and distance from this intense connection, yet they find themselves unable to let go. The pounding of their heart and trembling of their hands indicate the emotional intensity they feel. The narrator's confusion grows deeper when their partner unexpectedly shows up at their door, leading to a ride whose purpose they can't comprehend. The line "We make love like a house on fire" suggests a relationship that is both intense and destructive, fueled by passion but also potentially harmful. The comparison to "dogs gone mad" emphasizes the primal and uncontrolled nature of their connection. Ultimately, the narrator admits that there are some aspects of this relationship that they will never fully understand.

The lyrics capture the push and pull of desire and vulnerability, with the narrator torn between wanting to be free and unable to resist the pull of their partner. There is a sense of being caught in a cycle of intense emotions, uncertain whether to embrace or reject this overwhelming connection. The song highlights the allure of passion and the complicated emotions it can evoke. It delves into the internal conflict of wanting someone even when it may be detrimental to one's well-being.

Overall, "You Know What to Do" showcases Carly Simon's ability to convey raw emotions and vulnerability through her lyrics. It dives into the complex dynamics of a passionate and tumultuous relationship, exploring themes of desire, confusion, and the struggle to understand one's own emotions.