Backlash Jack
Naked Raygun Lyrics


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Backlash? Jack said it would happen to me
That is what he said to me
Tremors cause the weak to flee
So choose your friends
And choose wisely

Don't touch the stuff
I think once is enough
His ears think the sounds
He dreams what he has found

Backlash? Jack said it'd happen to me
Again he warned me of what I'd see
When praises come too easily
Pay for lip, backlash is free

The first to abandon
Formed the band wagon




The first rat off the ship
Is the first to be too hip

Overall Meaning

The song Backlash Jack by Naked Raygun begins with the warning given by Jack to the singer. Jack had prophesized that there will be a backlash on him, implying that the singer would face the consequences of his actions. The lyrics suggest that the singer should be careful in choosing his friends and should choose wisely. The line "Tremors cause the weak to flee" indicates that certain situations lead people to abandon their associates in crisis, and only the strong can withstand and hold their ground.


The song further emphasizes that one must not indulge in dangerous substances or habits, as it can lead to disastrous consequences. The phrase "Don't touch the stuff, I think once is enough" advises the listener that even a singular experience can be harmful. The next few lines suggest that certain sounds might lure a person towards them and might even tempt them into doing something they would regret later. The song comes full circle as Jack's warning is reiterated, stating that when praises come too quickly and easily, one must be careful not to pay lip service and prepare for the accompanying backlash.


Line by Line Meaning

Backlash? Jack said it would happen to me
Jack warned me of potential consequences


Tremors cause the weak to flee
People panic in stressful situations


So choose your friends
Pick your companions wisely to avoid trouble


And choose wisely
Be careful in your choices


Don't touch the stuff
Avoid dangerous things


I think once is enough
Trying something once is sufficient


His ears think the sounds
He is deceived by what he hears


He dreams what he has found
He holds onto false hopes


Again he warned me of what I'd see
Jack warned me again of potential consequences


When praises come too easily
Be wary of insincere compliments


Pay for lip, backlash is free
False flattery will have negative consequences


The first to abandon
People who give up easily


Formed the band wagon
Are quick to follow others


The first rat off the ship
Those who flee at the first sign of trouble


Is the first to be too hip
Are often praised for abandoning ship, but are actually foolish




Contributed by Josiah V. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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