You Might Think
The Cars
Unraveling the Playful Obsession in 'You Might Think' by The Cars
The song 'You Might Think' by The Cars is a vibrant and upbeat track that delves into the themes of infatuation and playful obsession. The lyrics, delivered with a mix of earnestness and tongue-in-cheek humor, depict a narrator who is fully aware that their attraction might seem irrational or crazy to others, but they remain unapologetically drawn to the object of their affection. The repeated line 'But all I want is you' emphasizes the single-minded focus of the narrator's desire, regardless of how it might be perceived.
The song also touches on the idea of seeing someone in a unique light, recognizing their quirks and vulnerabilities. Phrases like 'when you flash that fragile smile' and 'so uniquely styled' suggest a deep familiarity and appreciation for the person's individuality. This admiration is so strong that it persists despite the difficulties ('there's no escape without a scrape') and the narrator's acknowledgment of the potential folly in their pursuit ('You might think it's foolish').
Musically, 'You Might Think' is characteristic of The Cars' new wave sound, blending rock and pop with synthesizer-driven hooks. This energetic backdrop adds to the playful tone of the song, reinforcing the carefree and slightly wild nature of the narrator's feelings. The music video for the song, which won the first-ever MTV Video Music Award for Video of the Year in 1984, further illustrates the whimsical and surreal aspects of the lyrics with its groundbreaking use of computer graphics and animation.