That's Not Really Funny
Eels Lyrics


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Did you think that I would laugh
When you said I was small?
Did you think that that would pass
As if nothing at all?
You say a lot of funny things, my little bunny
And I almost always laugh
But that's not really funny
You play the little bells and tell a good story
You bake delicious pie and that's enough for me
But I am big I am your man
And you're my little honey
And I like what you have to say
But that's not really funny

You must not continue to emasculate me
The neighbor children through the window
Clearly see
The little boy will wipe his nose because it's runny




Then point at me and laugh
But that's not really funny

Overall Meaning

The song "That's Not Really Funny" by Eels is a poignant and introspective exploration of the power dynamics within a romantic relationship. The lyrics suggest that the singer's partner often makes jokes at his expense, perhaps teasing him for being smaller or weaker than her. While the singer initially brushes off these jabs and even laughs along, he ultimately realizes that this behavior is not acceptable and that it is damaging his sense of masculine identity. He tells his partner that she must stop "emasculating" him in front of others, as it is humiliating and diminishes his credibility in their eyes. The music is sparse, with a simple and repetitive melody that underscores the bleakness of the lyrics. The song ultimately asks us to consider how we treat the people we love, and to recognize the importance of mutual respect and understanding in relationships.


Line by Line Meaning

Did you think that I would laugh
Did you assume that I would find it amusing


When you said I was small?
When you insulted my manhood by calling me small


Did you think that that would pass
Did you expect me to let it slide


As if nothing at all?
As if it did not have any significance


You say a lot of funny things, my little bunny
You often make me laugh with your jokes, my darling


And I almost always laugh
I usually chuckle at your humor


But that's not really funny
But your latest jab at me is not a laughing matter


You play the little bells and tell a good story
You have a talent for playing the bells and telling entertaining tales


You bake delicious pie and that's enough for me
Your delicious pie is all I need to be happy


But I am big I am your man
But I am a grown man and your partner


And you're my little honey
And you are my sweet and lovely partner


And I like what you have to say
I enjoy listening to you speak


But that's not really funny
But your insulting comment was hurtful, not humorous


You must not continue to emasculate me
You should not continue to undermine my masculinity


The neighbor children through the window
The kids next door are watching from outside


Clearly see
Can easily observe


The little boy will wipe his nose because it's runny
The young child will wipe his snotty nose


Then point at me and laugh
And then laugh while pointing at me


But that's not really funny
But it is not a situation to be laughed at




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Reservoir Media Management, Inc.
Written by: JOHN ALEXANDER WILLIAM PARISH, MARK O. EVERETT

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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