That's What You Get

Paramore's 'That's What You Get' is a vibrant and emotionally charged song that delves into the complexities of following one's heart, especially when it leads to pain and regret. The band, known for their pop-punk style and the dynamic vocals of lead singer Hayley Williams, often explores themes of love, heartache, and personal growth in their music. This track, from their 2007 album 'Riot!', is no exception, offering listeners a candid look at the consequences of emotional vulnerability.

The lyrics of 'That's What You Get' reflect a dialogue with oneself about the risks of opening up to love. The opening lines set the stage for a confrontation, not with another person, but with the singer's own feelings and decisions. The repeated chorus, 'That's what you get when you let your heart win,' serves as a cautionary refrain, suggesting that letting emotions take control can lead to hurt. However, there's also a sense of inevitability in the song, as if the heart's influence is too strong to resist, even when the mind knows better. The line 'I drowned out all my sense with the sound of its beating' poignantly captures the overpowering nature of one's emotions.

The bridge of the song introduces the idea of pain being almost welcomed or expected, with the lyrics 'Pain, make your way to me, to me / And I'll always be just so inviting.' This masochistic acceptance of pain suggests a familiarity with heartache, and perhaps even a sense of comfort in the predictability of emotional suffering. The song ends with a reluctant admission of distrust in oneself when it comes to matters of the heart, highlighting the internal conflict between desire and self-protection. 'That's What You Get' resonates with anyone who has ever been torn between the head and the heart, making it a relatable anthem for the lovesick and the love-worn alike.