Fever

The Cramps' rendition of 'Fever' is a sultry and electrifying exploration of love's intense and consuming nature. The song's lyrics delve into the overwhelming emotions that come with deep affection and physical attraction. The repeated mention of 'fever' serves as a metaphor for the burning passion and desire that the narrator feels when they are with their lover. This fever is not just a fleeting sensation but an all-encompassing experience that persists from morning until night, highlighting the relentless and enduring nature of their love.

The song also draws on historical and literary references to illustrate the universality of this feverish love. By mentioning the passionate relationships of Captain Smith and Pocahontas, as well as Romeo and Juliet, the lyrics suggest that this intense feeling of love and desire is a timeless and universal experience. These references serve to connect the narrator's personal feelings to a broader human experience, emphasizing that everyone, at some point, has felt this fever.

In the final verses, The Cramps make a bold statement about their own music, claiming that they were 'born to give you fever.' This line not only ties the song's theme back to the band's identity but also underscores the idea that music itself can evoke powerful emotions and sensations. The repetition of 'What a lovely way to burn' in the closing lines encapsulates the paradoxical pleasure and pain of passionate love, suggesting that despite its intensity, this fever is ultimately a beautiful and desirable experience.