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.
Up against the wall
You don't stand so tall
Better run run run put your armor on again
She is 12 years old
Nothing she don't know
She says you're 32 but you want to be 16
I know that you did not receive
What it was that you needed when you were
Growing
But tell me what's the worth
You're repeating history verse by verse
What do you prove
No matter what you say I think you'll lose
You'll lose
You'll lose her
Up against the wall
You don't stand so tall
Better run run run put your armor on again
Isn't it time we recognized that we all live
Such broken lives sometimes
And it's sad but true that you still carry so
Much with you
You don't stand so tall
Better run run run put your armor on again
She is 12 years old
Nothing she don't know
She says you're 32 but you want to be 16
I know that you did not receive
What it was that you needed when you were
Growing
But tell me what's the worth
You're repeating history verse by verse
What do you prove
No matter what you say I think you'll lose
You'll lose
You'll lose her
Up against the wall
You don't stand so tall
Better run run run put your armor on again
Isn't it time we recognized that we all live
Such broken lives sometimes
And it's sad but true that you still carry so
Much with you
Add your thoughts
Log in now to tell us what you think this song means.
Don’t have an account? Create an account with SongMeanings to post comments, submit lyrics, and more. It’s super easy, we promise!
More Featured Meanings
Light Up The Sky
Van Halen
Van Halen
Holiday
Bee Gees
Bee Gees
@[Diderik:33655] "Your a holiday!" Was a popular term used in the 50s/60s to compliment someone on their all around. For example, not only are they beautiful, but they are fun and kind too ... just an all around "holiday".
I think your first comment is closer to being accurate. The singer/song writers state "Millions of eyes can see, yet why am i so blind!? When the someone else is me, its unkind its unkind". I believe hes referring to the girl toying with him and using him. He wants something deeper with her, thats why he allows himself to be as a puppet (even though for her fun and games) as long as it makes her happy. But he knows deep down that she doesnt really want to be serious with him and thats what makes him.
Just A Little Lovin'
Dusty Springfield
Dusty Springfield
I don't think it's necessarily about sex. It's about wanting to start the day with some love and affection. Maybe a warm cuddle. I'm not alone in interpreting it that way! For example:
"'Just a Little Lovin’ is a timeless country song originally recorded by Eddy Arnold in 1954. The song, written by Eddie Miller and Jimmy Campbell, explores the delicate nuances of love and showcases Arnold’s emotive vocals. It delves into the universal theme of love and how even the smallest gesture of affection can have a profound impact on our lives." https://oldtimemusic.com/the-meaning-behind-the-song-just-a-little-lovin-by-eddy-arnold/
Head > Heels
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran
“Head > Heels” is a track that aims to capture what it feels like to experience romance that exceeds expectations. Ed Sheeran dedicates his album outro to a lover who has blessed him with a unique experience that he seeks to describe through the song’s nuanced lyrics.
Page
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran
There aren’t many things that’ll hurt more than giving love a chance against your better judgement only to have your heart crushed yet again. Ed Sheeran tells such a story on “Page.” On this track, he is devastated to have lost his lover and even more saddened by the feeling that he may never move on from this.
Yup, agreed. A child who's seen too much for her years. Seen it all, done it all, suffered pain and hurt that she'll carry with her forever. "It's sad but true, you still carry so much with you"