I Think I Smell A Rat

Okay, some people apparently don't realize that the White Stripes are by their nature a minimalist band. The lyrics aren't supposed to be cryptic or earth-shattering, but sometimes they are ("Black Math," "Do," "Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground," I could go on for longer). Their whole schtick is that they're NOT about ridiculously complex lyrics. The philosophy is the same as with Japanese art--it's all about minimalism. Americans labor over stanzas and stanzas of poetry, whereas one of the most respected forms of Japanese poetry is a 3-line haiku with a very LIMITED rhyme scheme. Don't look at this song expecting "Stairway to Heaven." The length, lyrics, depth, and message are totally different.

I enjoyed this song, It reminded me of the movie, Pulp Fiction. It has that Quienten Tarentino vibe to it.

i think i smell some pot

The message of this song is simply put, which makes all the more powerful, in my opinion. Tool, I don't know why you think that is what the song is about. The song is talking about adolescents who grow up in medium-to-high-income families that act like delinquents. I know people who are like this, and they're irritating as hell. I always think of this song when I'm around them.

this band is awesome ,an everyone that is dissin should get a fucking life.

It sounds a lot like it could've been inspired by Gene Vincent's "Catch Me a Rat" (also minor key, similar rhythm, and, of course, the very similar title and chorus). This would be a worthy update on the Vincent tune, though, and I guess it's still different enough. Badass song.

alright, granted the white stripes are not brilliant lyricists. but are these the worst ever, not even close. shit, anyone who listens to classic knows that rock and roll isn't about what's said, but how you say it. there are exceptions, but the white stripes are capturing that old-school flavor when it wasn't supposed to exist anymore. take them for what they are and you'll enjoy them. they've got talent and vision, and they make good music.

i agree fully with the bosconator.

bosco, while you make a good point about the old-school, I disagree that the white stripes are not brilliant lyricists. If you read Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground, some of those lyrics are really clever and touching in some ways.

These songs is REALLY GREAT and I actually like the lyrics.