I Won't Dance
Anita O’Day Lyrics

The lyrics of Anita O'Day's song "I Won't Dance" convey the singer's refusal to dance with someone, despite acknowledging their loveliness and charm. In the first two lines, she firmly states her decision not to dance and emphasizes it by repeating the phrase "don't ask me." She declares that her heart prevents her feet from doing what they should do, suggesting that there may be personal reasons or emotional barriers that prevent her from engaging in dancing.

The next set of lines acknowledges the person's attractiveness and the effect they have on the singer. Describing them as "lovely," O'Day notes that they make her feel like an ocean wave that crashes onto the shore and leaves her feeling stumped on the floor. This imagery suggests that being near this person and witnessing their dance moves leaves her feeling overwhelmed and unable to respond.

The following lines highlight the person's charming and gentle dance style, particularly when performing "The Continental." However, the singer clarifies that her feelings are not solely mental, implying that there is a physical attraction and chemistry between them. She playfully states that she is not fireproof (referring to asbestos) as a humorous way of expressing that she is susceptible to the person's allure and doesn't want to risk losing control by dancing with them.

The final lines emphasize the singer's steadfast resolve not to dance. She questions why she should or could dance and thanks the person (saying "merci beaucoup") for understanding this. She acknowledges that music is often associated with romance and understands that holding the person in her arms while dancing may lead to further intimacy, which she wants to avoid.

Overall, the lyrics depict a complex mixture of admiration, attraction, and self-control, as the singer tries to resist dancing with someone she finds appealing.