Meaning of "Trout" by Neneh Cherry

The lyrics of "Trout" delve into various themes, including love, questioning, and the need for sex education. The song starts with a recognition that love can sometimes bring us down and leave us feeling unsure. The repetition of the lines "Some love brings me down / Some love turns me 'round and 'round" highlights the conflicting emotions that can come with relationships.

The verses suggest a longing for understanding and connection, as the narrator wonders if their words or actions are causing confusion or strife. They express a desire for authenticity and genuine emotions, as demonstrated by the lines "What a bore then there was none / Now there's one 'cause I'm a lucky one" and "A feeling of love knocking on my door." These expressions of affection contrast with the earlier uncertainty, hinting at hope and gratitude for love's arrival.

However, the song also touches on the societal taboos and limitations surrounding discussions of sex. The lines "The law says we can't talk about A ---?" and "Parents and teachers get together get cool / Children need to learn about sex in school" shed light on the need for proper sex education. The lyrics advocate for parents, teachers, and society to come together to educate children about sex, asserting that withholding knowledge ultimately leaves them vulnerable. This is emphasized with the line "Don't let your kid get caught without a jimmy hat," highlighting the importance of safe practices and protection.

The chorus repeats the phrase "round and round," which can be interpreted metaphorically as both the cyclical nature of love and the continuous need for sex education. The lyrics reveal a desire for understanding and clarity in matters of love and sexuality, encouraging open discussions to remove taboo and provide proper education for children and young adults.