Meaning of "The Morning After" by Ratt

The lyrics of "The Morning After" delve into the dynamics of a casual encounter or fling, exploring themes of temporary gratification and the emptiness that can follow such a situation. The narrator seems to understand that the person they are with is using them as a means to fulfill their own desires and needs. This can be inferred from lines such as "Say I'm inviting to somebody else, Know what I mean" and "You won't confuse me with somebody else, Look in your mirror, you're too good for yourself." These lines suggest that the person the narrator is with is seeking validation and a sense of worth through these encounters.

The lyrics also suggest that the person the narrator is addressing has deeply ingrained insecurities. This is implied through lines like "You're on my mind, baby, all the time" and "Can't you see, I'll be headin' out in time." It seems that this person is constantly seeking validation and attention from others to compensate for their own self-doubts or unhappiness. The narrator is aware of this but still decides to go along with it for the night, acknowledging that they will be leaving the next morning.

The underlying message in "The Morning After" seems to be a commentary on the superficial nature of such encounters and the potential emptiness they can leave behind. The narrator understands that this encounter is ultimately fleeting and holds no real substance or meaning. It highlights the theme of temporary pleasure and the willingness to engage in it, even if both parties are fully aware of the transience of the connection.