You Know What To Do

Carly Simon's song "You Know What To do To Me" delves into the complexities of a tumultuous and irresistible relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night filled with allure and temptation, where the protagonist finds herself unable to resist the magnetic pull of a lover who knows exactly how to get under her skin. The opening lines set the scene with a vibrant nightlife, filled with pretty girls and dancing, yet the focus quickly shifts to the protagonist's internal struggle. Despite the lover's promise to stay away, the protagonist is drawn back into the cycle of desire and confusion, unable to fully break free.

The chorus, repeating the lines "You know what to do to me, you know what it does to me," underscores the power dynamics at play. The lover's actions have a profound and almost uncontrollable effect on the protagonist, causing her heart to pound and her hands to tremble. This repetition emphasizes the inevitability and intensity of their connection, highlighting the emotional turmoil and physical reactions that come with it. The protagonist's inability to understand why she is so affected by this person adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, suggesting a deeper, perhaps subconscious, bond.

As the song progresses, the imagery of shooting stars and sleepless nights further illustrates the protagonist's restless state. The arrival of the lover on a roaring motorcycle symbolizes the sudden and disruptive nature of their encounters. The passionate yet chaotic nature of their love-making, described as "like a house on fire" and "like dogs gone mad," captures the raw and uncontrollable energy of their relationship. Ultimately, the song portrays a powerful and consuming connection that defies logic and understanding, leaving the protagonist caught in a cycle of desire and confusion.