Meaning of "Don't Ask Me" by OK Go

"Don't Ask Me" explores the theme of insincerity and the frustration it causes within relationships. The lyrics depict a situation where the speaker has experienced deceit and pretense from someone they used to know. The repetitive phrases of "Don't ask me" reflect the speaker's resistance towards engaging with this person, urging them to refrain from pretending to care. The repetitive nature of the lyrics can also be seen as a release of pent-up frustration and anger.

The speaker expresses a sense of disillusionment with the person's behavior, emphasizing how they don't want to be fooled by the facade of friendliness. References to superficial actions such as nodding, laughing, sipping iced-tea, and flashing a smile highlight the perceived shallowness and insincerity from the other person. The mention of the disliked necklace further reinforces the idea that the relationship was built on false pretenses.

The repetition of "Don't ask me, ask me how I've been" suggests that the speaker wants nothing to do with the person's attempts to reconnect and pretend like everything is fine. It could be interpreted as a refusal to engage in any further conversation about their well-being, as the speaker no longer wants to share personal details or be vulnerable with someone who has proven themselves to be inauthentic.

The use of profanity towards the end of the song ("And don't waste my fucking time") intensifies the speaker's frustration and shows their determination to put an end to the insincere interactions. The final lines of the song, where the speaker reiterates "Don't ask me," serve as a powerful conclusion, emphasizing their unwavering stance against any further attempts at reconciliation or false sincerity.

Overall, "Don't Ask Me" delves into the emotional impact and consequences of insincerity in relationships. It expresses the speaker's desire to distance themselves from someone who has been disingenuous, emphasizing their need for authenticity and genuine connections.