Meaning of "I Make Hamburgers" by The Whitlams

The lyrics of "I Make Hamburgers" by The Whitlams explore the humorous and somewhat shallow nature of romantic relationships, as well as the role of appearances and charm in attracting partners. The protagonist, who works at a hamburger shop, boasts about his ability to attract women by offering them hamburgers. However, beneath the surface, it becomes clear that his relationships are fleeting and mostly centered around physical encounters. He goes from one customer to another, easily seducing them, but not forming any meaningful connections. The repetition of "I make hamburgers, I get all the girls" emphasizes his shallow approach to relationships, as he objectifies women and treats them as disposable.

The protagonist's encounters with his customers highlight different aspects of the dating scene. Megan, who initially came in for a vegetarian option, becomes his first conquest. Susan, who is on a diet, falls for his invitation to go out and have a good time. Maria, who simply wanted extra sauce, is taken home to meet her mother. Sandy, the final customer, was infatuated with the protagonist from the start and they end up eating hamburgers together. Each of these encounters reflects a different type of woman and the dynamic the protagonist seeks with them.

Overall, "I Make Hamburgers" satirizes the shallowness and superficiality often associated with dating culture, highlighting the protagonist's objectification of women and the transactional nature of his relationships. The song serves as a commentary on the fleeting and empty experiences that can result from prioritizing surface-level attractions over deeper connections.