Shake Him By The Hand

The song 'Shake Him By The Hand' by Don't Hug Me I'm Scared is a satirical commentary on social norms and the ritualistic nature of human interactions. The repetitive lyrics emphasize the act of shaking hands with various types of people, from businessmen to family men, and even a 'choo choo man' and a 'plug-in man.' This repetition highlights the absurdity and mechanical nature of these social rituals, suggesting that they are performed more out of habit than genuine connection or understanding.

The inclusion of different characters, such as the 'choo choo man' and the 'plug-in man,' adds a layer of surrealism to the song. These characters are not typical figures one would encounter in daily life, which further underscores the arbitrary nature of the handshake ritual. The line 'I'm trying to sleep' interjected towards the end of the song introduces a sense of frustration or fatigue, possibly indicating the exhaustion that comes from constantly adhering to these social expectations.

Don't Hug Me I'm Scared is known for their unique blend of dark humor and social commentary, often using childlike aesthetics to explore complex themes. This song fits well within their oeuvre, using simple, repetitive lyrics to make a broader point about the performative aspects of social interactions. The handshakes serve as a metaphor for the superficial ways in which people connect, questioning the authenticity and necessity of such rituals in modern society.