You've got a big mouth
With big words spilling out
Come here, give me a kiss
With vocabulary lips

We all take out loans
We are breaking bones
Raise your drink high
Keep your head hung low

You've got a big mouth
With big words spilling out
Come here, give me a kiss
With vocabulary lips

We all take out loans
We are breaking bones
Raise your drink high
Keep your head hung low

Signal's break up like long distance lovers
And scardy-cat kids hide under covers
Systems break up like long distance friends
Who wants to be real?
It's more fun to pretend.

We all take out loans
We are breaking bones
Raise your drink high
Keep your head hung low

Overall Meaning

"Better Safe Than Safari" by Thunderbirds Are Now! is an energetic and catchy rock song that delves into themes of bravado, risk-taking, and vulnerability. The opening line "You've got a big mouth, with big words spilling out" sets the tone for the song, as the lead singer calls out someone for their exaggerated boastfulness. However, the following line "Come here, give me a kiss, with vocabulary lips" suggests that the singer may be attracted to this bravado and even turned on by it, pointing to a complicated relationship dynamic.

The chorus of "We all take out loans, we are breaking bones, raise your drink high, keep your head hung low" highlights the idea that taking risks and making sacrifices is part of life, but it's important to do so wisely and with caution. This theme is emphasized in the title "Better Safe Than Safari," which suggests that it's better to choose a safe and secure path rather than recklessly go on an adventure.

The verses touch upon the idea that signals and systems break down, but it's often easier to pretend that everything is fine rather than face the reality of the situation. This line is particularly poignant: "Who wants to be real? It's more fun to pretend." It suggests that pretending may be an easier way to avoid dealing with difficult emotions.

Overall, "Better Safe Than Safari" explores complex emotions and ideas in a fun and upbeat way, showcasing Thunderbirds Are Now!'s talent for crafting catchy and interesting music.

Line by Line Meaning

You've got a big mouth
You speak too much and too loudly.

With big words spilling out
You use big and complex words in your speech.

Come here, give me a kiss
Approach me and show me superficial affection.

With vocabulary lips
Using sophisticated and clever language to express yourself.

We all take out loans
We all borrow money.

We are breaking bones
We are working hard and pushing ourselves to the limit.

Raise your drink high
Celebrate your success and elevate your social status.

Keep your head hung low
Be humble and avoid drawing attention to yourself.

Signal's break up like long distance lovers
Communication becomes unstable and unreliable, like a distant romantic relationship.

And scardy-cat kids hide under covers
People become afraid and insecure, like children hiding under blankets.

Systems break up like long distance friends
Structures and institutions become unstable and fall apart, like a distant friendship.