Meaning of "Can't Do" by Everything Everything

The lyrics of "Can't Do" by Everything Everything delve into themes of self-doubt, pressure to conform, and the desire for independence. The opening lines, "Just gimme a glimpse, I have to know / Just give me the business end to go," reveal a curiosity and eagerness to understand something, possibly the expectations placed upon the speaker. They want to see the "bones under the floor," which suggests wanting to understand the underlying motivations or hidden truths. The subsequent line, "Have I awoken something sleeping in you?," implies that the speaker's actions or desires have unsettled the other person, placing additional pressure and expectation on them.

The chorus repeatedly pleads for help, acknowledging the inability to meet the desired expectations: "Help me, I can't do the thing you want." This repetition emphasizes the feelings of inadequacy and frustration. The juxtaposition of the line "I'm loving the bass, I'm loving the drums" against the previous pleas for help suggests a desire to find joy and fulfillment outside of the external pressures and expectations placed upon them.

The shift in perspective in the verse that begins with "But that was the horror on the phone" introduces the idea that the speaker may also be struggling with their own inner demons and fears. They are told that "it's up to me," indicating a sense of personal responsibility and agency in overcoming their fears and challenges. The repetition of "It's up to me, it's up to me, it's up to me" emphasizes the weight of this responsibility. The line "I gotta rip it apart" suggests a need to confront and dismantle these fears.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring sentiment of wanting to be independent: "Just wanna be on my own." This desire for autonomy and the struggle to meet external expectations are at odds with each other. The repetition of "Can't do the thing you want" reinforces the feelings of being trapped and unable to conform.

Overall, "Can't Do" explores the internal conflicts and external pressures that hinder personal growth and self-fulfillment. It delves into themes of self-doubt, independence, and the struggle to meet expectations. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration and a longing for autonomy.