Hands Clean

Alanis Morissette's 'Hands Clean' is a song that delves into the complicated dynamics of a relationship with a significant age and power disparity. The lyrics suggest a narrative where the protagonist reflects on a past relationship with someone who was much younger and possibly under her influence or guidance. The song's verses hint at a mentor-mentee relationship that crossed boundaries into the personal and possibly sexual realm, which is both controversial and ethically questionable.

The song's chorus, 'Ooh, this could be messy, but you don't seem to mind,' captures the essence of the risky and potentially damaging nature of the relationship. The repeated requests for silence and the phrase 'you've washed your hands clean of this' imply a desire to keep the affair secret and the younger person's attempt to move on from the past. Morissette's use of the phrase 'washed your hands clean' is particularly evocative, suggesting a deliberate effort to remove any trace or responsibility for what has transpired.

The bridge of the song raises questions about selective memory and the rewriting of history, which can occur in relationships where there is an imbalance of power. The protagonist seems to be grappling with the ethics of the situation, the secrecy involved, and the impact it has had on both parties. The song's narrative structure and Morissette's emotive delivery create a complex and thought-provoking piece that challenges listeners to consider the nuances of consent, manipulation, and the consequences of relationships that exist in moral gray areas.