Why Do You Let Me Stay Here? Lyrics

Lyric discussion by charliesmom4 

Cover art for Why Do You Let Me Stay Here? lyrics by She & Him

Why is she "sitting on a shelf"? Is it a metaphor for her acting like a "doll" or a lady and not wanting to make the first move?

Song Meaning

Probably so, charliesmom4. Underneath the chipper, inviting tone, the singer is powerless to do anything to advance the relationship. She just has to wait for him because she doesn't believe in making the first move. As much as I'm seduced by the breezy, '60's vibe of this song, it reinforces repressive gender roles for women. When I heard this, I thought, "Get off that shelf, girl! Demand to be noticed!"

I thought it was a reference to the saying "on the shelf" as in shes a bit old now and she needs someone or shell be considered a spinster. perhaps not a reference to age but to the amount of time she has been waiting.

goddesscaroline => I think you’re right, and definitely understand your reaction (about getting off the shelf). However, I think the reason she doesn’t is because she isn’t she if he doesn’t feel the same way back, which is why she would never make a first move.

“I’ve got to get your presence/Let’s make it known."

This shows that he probably hasn’t been giving her any attention or acknowledgment, which is why she’s hesitant and “stays on the shelf.”

I can absolutely relate to this, not talking to guy because he...