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.
Jumping with your eyes closed, Landing on the sun
Being young and beautiful, In love with no one
But yourself
Chorus
And people tell you you're pretty yeah
Your smile drives them crazy lady
You want to slowly fade away, but you can't, So you stay
Playing for the public, Making them love you
You're so cruel
Chorus
And people tell you you're pretty yeah
Your smile drives them crazy lady
You want to slowly fade away, but you can't
So you stay with me, with me, Bokkie
I'm on an island for two
Chorus
And people tell tell you you're pretty yeah
Your smile drives them crazy lady
You want to slowly fade away, but you can't
So you stay with me
Being young and beautiful, In love with no one
But yourself
Chorus
And people tell you you're pretty yeah
Your smile drives them crazy lady
You want to slowly fade away, but you can't, So you stay
Playing for the public, Making them love you
You're so cruel
Chorus
And people tell you you're pretty yeah
Your smile drives them crazy lady
You want to slowly fade away, but you can't
So you stay with me, with me, Bokkie
I'm on an island for two
Chorus
And people tell tell you you're pretty yeah
Your smile drives them crazy lady
You want to slowly fade away, but you can't
So you stay with me
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.
Gentle Hour
Yo La Tengo
Yo La Tengo
This song was originally written by a guy called Peter Gutteridge. He was one of the founders of the "Dunedin Sound" a musical scene in the south of New Zealand in the early 80s. From there it was covered by "The Clean" one of the early bands of that scene (he had originally been a member of in it's early days, writing a couple of their best early songs). The Dunedin sound, and the Clean became popular on american college radio in the mid to late 80s. I guess Yo La Tengo heard that version.
Great version of a great song,
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.
i wouldnt say better than the strokes.. but theyre good!
i LOVE elefant. this is such a great song
The greatest song to ever include a pet name. It really gives this song a deeper sense of feeling. Fucking awesome song.
Better than Strokes.
i love this song! it is better than the strokes. is Bokkie an actual girl he knew?
I don't really like the Strokes anyway. This is an okay song by them, but not my favorite.
It kinda sounds like he's singing about a girlfriend who happens to be a celebrity.("Playing for the public"...) Well, it sounds like this to me. But if you don't agree, post your explanation for these lyrics because I would like to see what other people think.
This song makes me happy.
well i don't know if this could possibly have any relevance but bokkie is an afrikaans word for small buck, as in "kyk, daar is 'n springbokkie!". it's also a term of endearment, which could link to the song, but probably not...
anyway, my interpretation on this song is of a girl who, no matter what anyone says, never feels loved. she likes to make every like her, but she never feels like anyone loves her and just wishes she didn't have to go through all the drama everyday. but she can't make it go away so she jsut keeps on trying to make everyone like her. if that maks sense...
I'm on an island for two
that line is magic