Can't Not

IMHO, this song is about the media and addresses journalists and/or critics. She simply explains how the way the media is treating her affects her. I think that once you take this point of view you'll see that it fits the lyrics perfectly, but still, several comments: "how can I complain when I'm the one that reaches for this" - she feels that she can't complain about the media's attitude towards her because as a pop star she has no choice but to expose herself to the public. "because I cannot walk without my crutches" - the crutches could be a symbol for her music which she can't give up. The school yard probably reflects the way Alanis sees the smartass critics.

i really like this song.. the words alone dont put across the complete meaning though, i dont think.... u need to hear the music too

ur right.. you do need to hear the music, in the second verse, it's sounds so dark when she says "would it be whining if I said I needed a hug?", and sounds amazing with the bass up. -completely underated song on a VERY underated album

Actually my favorite Alanis album of them all, definitely underrated. I guess because everyone was expecting another JLP... but anyway....

Such a darkly beautiful song, just like many on Supposed Former.

def. one of my favorites, there are so many ways to interpret it to, so every time I hear it I instantly can apply whatever situation I'm in to it. of course, some of her songs are better for some things than others, but still.. .truly magnificent.

I too, think her second album is underrated. it's so passionate, and dark, but that makes the lighter songs all the more appreciated. its more approchable, I think, than JLP. don't know why that is... but I like it!!!!

I agree with Buddah Of Suburbia (loving the name by the way) Supposed Former has so much culture and meaning behind it, as her others do but this is somewhat rich in it. This song to me makes me picture Alanis (like quite a few of the songs do) and she's defensive "would I be letting you in" and then worrying "how would I explain" leading to sneering (only in my vision, mind) at the unknowing children. Because they ask so many questions, and don't know what others have been through. That's what I see anyway :)

i like the meaning cookieman put forward, i think you could easily attribute it to that, but i also think there are other interpretations referring to a particularly volitile relationship that she feels she cannot handle, and as for SFIJ by far her best album

I effing LOVE SFIJ

Ridiculously good song off a gem of an album, the lyrics arguably evoke the songwriter's personal thoughts from a variety of situations: a falling out between friends, the recognition of a dependency, shame over an embarrassing moment.

such a great great great song!!!!!!!! cookieman said it best. nothing to add. just wanna say, this is one of those songs you can relate to just about anything in your life. i love screaming along to this song, especially the last verse. it's so comforting.