Meaning of "Turn Into" by Yeah Yeah Yeahs

"Turn Into" by Yeah Yeah Yeahs captures the intense emotions of longing and desire for another person. The opening lines, "I know what I know, I know on the car ride down, I hear it in my head real low," suggest a deep sense of understanding and familiarity with the person being referred to. It implies that this connection goes beyond superficial knowledge and taps into a profound understanding of the other person.

There is a strong desire to be with this person, expressed through the repetition of the line "Turn into the only thing I ever, turn into hope I do, turn into you." The narrator longs to become the person they desire, to inhabit their essence and form a deep connection with them. This desire suggests a yearning to fully merge with their identity and experience a sense of unity.

However, there is a sense of secrecy and hesitation in the relationship. The lines "Can't say why I kept this from you, my those quiet eyes become you" suggest that the narrator is withholding something from the other person. This secrecy may stem from fear of rejection or the desire to protect them. It introduces an element of tension and complexity to the relationship, contributing to the bittersweet nature of the song.

The lyrics also touch on the idea of leaving the past behind and starting anew. The lines "Leave it where it can't remind us, turn this all around behind us" suggest a desire to move forward and leave any obstacles or negative experiences in the past. It reflects a willingness to let go of past baggage and create a fresh start with the person they are longing for.

The repeated phrase "I know what I know" throughout the song signifies a certainty in the emotions expressed. It emphasizes the deep understanding and knowledge the narrator possesses about this person, as if their connection transcends the ordinary. The repetition of this line adds to the intensity and conviction of the lyrics.

The closing lines, "I know what I know, I know, ah yes," leave the song open-ended, leaving the listener with a sense of longing and unresolved emotions. It suggests that despite the narrator's understanding and desire, the situation may not work out as they hope. This ambiguity adds to the emotional complexity of the song and highlights the vulnerability and uncertainty that often accompany deep desires.