I Can't Decide
Scissor Sisters
The Dilemma of Decision in 'I Can't Decide'
The song 'I Can't Decide' by Scissor Sisters presents a darkly comedic narrative, where the protagonist is caught in a moral and emotional dilemma. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody contrast with the grim subject matter, creating a sense of irony that is characteristic of the Scissor Sisters' style, which often blends pop rock with glam rock and nu-disco influences.
The lyrics depict a struggle with making a significant decision about someone else's fate, oscillating between life and death. The lines 'I can't decide whether you should live or die' suggest a deep internal conflict, possibly hinting at a toxic relationship where the speaker feels both affection and intense frustration towards the other person. The song uses hyperbolic scenarios, like throwing someone in a lake or feeding them poisoned cake, to illustrate the extremity of the emotions involved. Despite the morbid imagery, there's a playful tone to the delivery, which might indicate a metaphorical expression of wanting to end the relationship rather than literal harm.
The song also touches on themes of identity and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. The speaker mentions not wanting to be a 'bad guy' or a 'gangster' and the difficulty of pleasing everyone, which could reflect the struggle to maintain one's individuality while navigating social relationships. The repeated line 'Lock the doors and close the blinds, we're going for a ride' could symbolize the decision to isolate oneself and deal with personal issues internally, away from the judgment of others.