Meaning of "I Can't Hear You" by The Dead Weather

The meaning behind the lyrics of "I Can't Hear You" revolves around themes of control, possessiveness, and manipulation. The opening line, "I can't hear you," sets the tone for the rest of the song, suggesting a lack of interest in or a refusal to listen to the thoughts and opinions of others. The line "You're talking to yourself" conveys the idea that the person being addressed is self-absorbed, only concerned with their own thoughts and ideas. The phrase "And what you're used to, it don't work on no one else" implies that their typical behavior is ineffective in influencing or connecting with others.

The speaker then declares, "I'm gonna teach you, and keep you for myself." This line reveals a desire to control the person, to mold and shape them according to their own desires. The subsequent line, "I'm gonna take you by the hand, I'm gonna walk you to my house," is a metaphorical representation of the speaker wanting to lead and guide the person towards their own perspective. The repetition of the line "So I can hear you" emphasizes the speaker's focus on having control over the other person's thoughts and opinions.

The second verse continues to highlight the manipulative nature of the speaker. The phrase "Naive, be so naive" suggests that the person being addressed is gullible and easily influenced. The mention of "stashing money" and "rubies up your sleeve" hints at deceit and hidden motives. The line "You're never gonna leave" further emphasizes the speaker's desire for possession and control over the person.

Throughout the song, the repetition of the chorus reinforces the speaker's determination to dominate and isolate the person, claiming that they are the only one who can be trusted. The lyrics suggest a toxic and potentially abusive relationship dynamic, where one person seeks to silence and control the other.