The meaning of Add It Up by Sting

The song 'Add It Up' by Violent Femmes has been a longstanding enigma to avid music fans for years. Released in 1983 as part of the band's debut album, the tune has long since captivated listeners with its catchy punk-folk charm. But what do its cryptic lyrics truly mean?

The core narrative of 'Add It Up' involves the protagonist voicing his frustrations toward romantic relationships, particularly the disparity of sexual desire between him and his partner. This theme is a universal one. After all, who hasn't felt the sting of unreciprocated yearning at one point or another?

Looking closely at the song's lyrics, you'll notice a constant repetition of the phrase, "Why can't I get just one kiss". This showcases the protagonist's desire for intimacy while also highlighting the object of his affections' lack of interest. Much of the song keeps to this theme, presenting a tale of sexual frustration and unrequited love that resonates with many listeners.

Yet despite its somber undertones, the music is far from downbeat. It's energetic, fun, and incredibly catchy. That's no accident. Rather, it's reflective of Violent Femmes' knack for crafting melodies that convey sentiment without sinking into melancholy.

Another aspect that's worth noting is the strong sense of youthful angst captured within the lyrics, a sense familiar to a vast demographic of listeners. This feeling of youthful frustration is evident in lines like, "Did you put a time around an important part of your body". It's a pure expression of longing, raw attraction and an exploration of sexuality.

The song also strikes a chord because it embodies an inherent human trait - impertinence. The narrative allows listeners to vicariously express their impertinent behavior, a side of human nature that's often suppressed in ordinary social circumstances.

'Add It Up' is real, raw, and inherently human, which explains why it still resonates with listeners nearly four decades after its release. Its melody may be fun and energetic, but its lyrics relay a complex tale of longing and frustration that continues to strike a chord within us all. An archetype of punk-folk sound, violent and poetic at the same time – that is 'Add It Up'.

As a final note, we invite you to revisit 'Add It Up' or listen for the first time if you've yet to experience this classic tune. Either way, you're in for a real treat. Understand the narrative, appreciate the punk-folk melody, and most importantly, lose yourself in the raw – bordering on visceral – emotion.

Whether you're a Violent Femmes fan or a punk-folk newcomer, 'Add It Up' is a testament to the power of music and its ability to relay human emotion in an unfiltered, honest form. Experience it for yourself, and prepare for a rollicking, emotive ride.