Jump
That Dog Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
When I say "Jump," he says "How high?"
When I say "Jump up to the sky,"
When I say "Jump," he jumps and jumps and jumps.
Jump.
When I say "Jump," he says "How high?"
When I say "Jump," he says...
When he says, "Jump," I say, "How high?"
How high?
The lyrics to That Dog's song "Jump" seem simple enough on the surface, but upon closer examination, they reveal a deeper layer of meaning. The repetition of the phrase "When I say 'Jump,' he says 'How high?'" creates a sense of conformity and submission that is further emphasized by the call-and-response structure of the verses. The use of the third person ("he") suggests that the song is about a person who is willing to subjugate themselves to someone else's authority or influence.
However, the singer also implies that they are caught up in this dynamic as well. When the roles are reversed, and the other person says "Jump," the singer responds by asking, "How high?" This suggests that both parties are caught up in a cycle of submission and control. The repetition of the word "Jump" throughout the song adds to this sense of repetitive, almost compulsive behavior, as if the characters are unable to break free from their roles.
Ultimately, the song seems to be about power dynamics in relationships and the ways in which people willingly or unwillingly cede control to others. The repetitiveness of the lyrics and the call-and-response structure create a sense of hypnotic obedience that is both unsettling and compelling.
Line by Line Meaning
When I say "Jump," he says "How high?"
The singer has someone who is very willing to follow their commands
When I say "Jump up to the sky,"
The singer is asking their companion to reach for something unattainable
When I say "Jump," he jumps and jumps and jumps.
The companion is eager and obedient, repeatedly jumping on command
Jump.
A single command for the companion to jump
When he says, "Jump," I say, "How high?"
The artist is willing to follow the commands of their companion in return
When he says, "Jump," I say...
The singer is waiting for their companion's next command
How high?
The singer is ready to jump and fulfill their companion's request
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, COOL SALLY MUSIC ATTN FREDRIC W ANSIS ESQ
Written by: ANNA JEANETTE WARONKER, ANTHONY MAXWELL, PETRA HADEN, RACHEL HADEN, TANYA HADEN
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