Meaning of "Jeopardy" by Greg Kihn Band

The lyrics of "Jeopardy" portray a sense of desperation and frustration in a romantic relationship. The narrator expresses disappointment and a feeling of abandonment by their partner. The line "Where were you when I needed you? Well, you could not be found" implies that the partner was not there in times of need. This lack of dependability has left the narrator feeling hurt and let down. The mention of "running me around" suggests that the partner is stringing the narrator along, causing confusion and uncertainty within the relationship.

The chorus repeats the phrase "Our love's in jeopardy, baby" to emphasize the fragile state of the relationship. The word "jeopardy" denotes a sense of danger or risk, highlighting the precarious nature of their love. The narrator urges their partner not to dismiss the situation lightly, as they can "take it as a warning" or "take it any way you like." The line "It's the lightning, not the thunder, you never know when it's going to strike" suggests that the partner's actions have unpredictable consequences and can lead to sudden damage that cannot be anticipated.

The verses continue to express the narrator's frustration and desperation. The line "Don't be cute, don't be funny now, it's later than you think" indicates a plea for seriousness and urgency on the part of the partner. The suggestion to "save your money now" implies that the relationship is on the brink of collapse and no longer worth investing in emotionally or financially. The repetition of the line "Don't let go while I'm hanging on" emphasizes the narrator's fear of being abandoned and left alone, highlighting the pain of being in a one-sided relationship.

Overall, "Jeopardy" portrays a relationship in turmoil, with the narrator feeling let down, desperate, and uncertain about the future. The lyrics convey the emotional toll of a partner's unreliability, emphasizing the fragility and risk inherent in their love.