Whatever You Do! Don't!
Shania Twain
The Irresistible Pull of Love: Shania Twain's 'Whatever You Do! Don't!'
Shania Twain's song 'Whatever You Do! Don't!' captures the intense and often overwhelming emotions that come with falling in love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone deeply infatuated, struggling to maintain composure in the presence of their crush. The setting of 'Denialville' suggests a place where the protagonist is trying to deny or suppress their feelings, but the physical and emotional reactions they experience make it impossible. The use of metaphors like 'I go jello when you smile' and 'I might melt down from the heat' effectively convey the vulnerability and helplessness that often accompany strong romantic feelings.
The chorus serves as a desperate plea for the object of affection to refrain from actions that would further intensify these feelings. Lines like 'Don't even think about it!' and 'Don't you dare drive me crazy!' highlight the internal conflict of wanting to be close to someone while fearing the emotional turmoil it might bring. The repetition of 'Whatever you do' followed by the chorus emphasizes the protagonist's struggle to maintain control over their emotions.
Twain's playful yet earnest delivery adds a layer of relatability to the song. Her ability to blend humor with genuine emotion makes the song both entertaining and deeply resonant. The lyrics also touch on the physical reactions to love, such as a racing heart and shivers down the back, which are universal experiences. This combination of light-heartedness and sincerity is a hallmark of Twain's musical style, making 'Whatever You Do! Don't!' a memorable and relatable anthem for anyone who has ever been caught in the throes of a crush.