The song lyrics were written by the band Van Halen, as they were asked to write a song for the 1979 movie "Over the Edge" starring Matt Dillon. The movie (and the lyrics, although more obliquely) are about bored, rebellious youth with nothing better to do than get into trouble. If you see the movie, these lyrics will make more sense. It's a great movie if you grew up in the 70s/80s you'll definitely remember some of these characters from your own life. Fun fact, after writing the song, Van Halen decided not to let the movie use it.
If I was the Grand Canyon
I'd echo everything you say
But I'm just me
I'm only me and you used to love me that way
So you know how to love me that way
If I was Paul Bunyan I'd carry you so far away
But I'm just me I'm only me
And you used to love me that way
So you know how to love me that way
I'd echo everything you say
But I'm just me
I'm only me and you used to love me that way
So you know how to love me that way
If I was Paul Bunyan I'd carry you so far away
But I'm just me I'm only me
And you used to love me that way
So you know how to love me that way
Lyrics submitted by Anne Arbour
Grand Canyon Lyrics as written by
Lyrics © ROUGH TRADE PUBLISHING
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I love the simplicity of this song. He's saying, 'I haven't changed, so obviously you still can love me like this since you did before'. You're right about it sounding cranky - it does sound that way. In a way he's right to be pissed off, however I guess people change. Maybe he has too, without realising it. Stephin Merritt's lyrics are amazing. He must work really hard at them - they're all so evocative. I love the tunes too, especially the ones with electronica-pop on them. I'm so happy I've found the MFs!