I Know

The song 'I Know' by 10 Things I Hate About You delves into the classic tension between youthful love and parental advice. The lyrics open with a cautionary note from the protagonist's mother, warning her to stay away from 'guys like you.' This sets the stage for a narrative where the protagonist is torn between her feelings and the wisdom imparted by her mother. The mother's advice is rooted in the belief that 'bad boys' are driven by their hormones and have a singular focus, which is often not in the best interest of a young woman.

The chorus, with its repetitive 'And I know, know cuz she said so,' highlights the internal conflict the protagonist faces. Despite her mother's warnings, she finds it difficult to let go of her feelings for the boy. This repetition underscores the struggle between adhering to parental guidance and following one's heart. The protagonist's acknowledgment of her mother's words suggests a deep respect for her advice, yet her inability to let go indicates the powerful pull of her emotions.

In the verses, the protagonist expresses her deep affection for the boy, describing him as 'nice to see and nice to touch.' She reassures him that she would never treat him wrong and has been waiting for him all along. This juxtaposition of her mother's warnings and her own feelings creates a rich emotional landscape, capturing the essence of teenage love and the complexities that come with it. The song concludes with a resolute declaration of her feelings, emphasizing her desire for the boy to know how much she cares for him, despite the conflicting advice she has received.