Meaning of "Turn Around & Count 2 Ten" by Dead Or Alive

The lyrics of "Turn Around & Count 2 Ten" convey a sense of urgency and desperation in trying to salvage a failing relationship. The repeated refrain of "turn around and count 2 ten" suggests a plea to pause and reflect before it's too late and the person they love slips away. There is a fear of losing the only person who truly loves them and a longing for the other person to see them as they are and not dwell on past mistakes or imagined versions of themselves. The lyrics also touch on the complexities of relationships, with lines like "we've both been acting strangely" and "you can hardly face me," indicating a breakdown in communication and emotional barriers. There is an acknowledgment that both parties are aware of the issues but are avoiding confronting them head-on because of the potential pain that comes with facing the truth.

The song implies that love is a game, and the protagonist recognizes that their love interest knows how to play it well. There is a sense of resignation in accepting that the future of their love is at stake, and both parties stand to lose more than they gain if they let go. The lyrics highlight the importance of making decisions about the relationship and not dwelling on the past. The protagonist wants their love interest to choose them and acknowledges that they were once the perfect lover. The mention of paradise being half as nice suggests that nothing will compare to the love they once shared.

The lyrics also emphasize the physical and emotional longing for their love interest. The desire to have their love in their hands, heart, dreams, and on their lips speaks to the depth and intensity of their emotions. It portrays a sense of completeness and warmth that comes from having that love back in their life.

In essence, "Turn Around & Count 2 Ten" captures the fear of losing love, the longing for redemption, the importance of communication and honesty in relationships, and the recognition of love's irreplaceable nature.