Would Be Killer
Gnarls Barkley Lyrics

The lyrics to Gnarls Barkley's "Would Be Killer" are dark and introspective, exploring the idea of violence and the thin line between good and evil that exists within each of us. The opening lines set the scene for the rest of the song, with the singer admitting that they have a secret desire to do something harmful to others. The second line suggests that the opportunity to act on this desire has passed, perhaps because of some external factor such as moral or legal constraints. The final line of this section taunts the listener, suggesting that they are lucky not to be the target of the singer's violent thoughts.

In the chorus, the singer reflects on their capacity for violence, suggesting that they could be a killer if circumstances were different. The use of conditional language - "could be" and "would be" - suggests that the singer is not actively seeking to harm others but is aware that they have the potential to do so. The line "hurt people hurt people" acknowledges that violence often stems from personal pain and trauma, suggesting that the singer may be struggling with their own emotional wounds.

In the final verse, the singer warns the listener not to challenge them, suggesting that they are capable of violence if provoked. The image of a high-wire ballet suggests a delicate balance between good and evil, with the singer teetering on the edge of darkness. The final line reflects the singer's desire to be loved, suggesting that they may be reaching out for support and connection in the face of their violent thoughts.