All That Talking
The Cat Empire Lyrics

And when it happens it's like
The beginning of the song introduces the idea that sometimes things happen that are difficult to explain, but that the feeling is both sweet and painful.

Honey and pain
This line builds on the previous idea, describing how the feeling is like the combination of something sweet (honey) and something painful.

Horns in the rain
The imagery here serves to illustrate the unpredictability and passion of the emotions being described.

Misty seas and mysteries
Continuing with the theme of uncertain feelings, this line likens them to foggy and uncharted waters.

A dog with no name
An enigmatic line that hints at the idea that sometimes things feel strange, but also that defining and naming them can be limiting.

It's that time again
While the previous lines focused more on the abstract idea of feelings, this line introduces the notion that these feelings come and go cyclically.

Not sure if I'm sleeping
The singer is unsure if what they are experiencing is real or if it's a dream, highlighting the surreal quality of the emotions being described.

But the vision's as clear
Despite the confusion, the image in the singer's mind is vivid and concrete.

As fog on the pier
Another example of an image that is both hazy and tangible, further emphasizing the complexity of the emotions being described.

Someone fishing aimlessly
This line paints a picture of someone going through the motions without a clear purpose, much like the singer's own search for understanding in their emotions.

A thought's an idea
A simple statement that highlights the connection between thought and idea, underlying the importance of introspection and personal discovery.

A sound is an ear
Similar to the previous line, this one couples the concept of sound with the act of hearing, demonstrating the importance of perception.

And gods with none believing
An abstract line that could be interpreted in a number of ways, it seems to suggest that even in a world without belief, there are mysterious and magical things that we cannot explain.

Being chased by the lamb
This line introduces a biblical reference that contrasts with the mystical imagery of the previous lines, but maintains the theme of running from something.

A knife in its hand
Continuing with the biblical reference, this line brings in a symbol of danger and violence, hinting that sometimes the unknown can be threatening.

Looked down from that mountain
This line shifts the focus to the singer's own perspective, suggesting that they are observing everything from a position of security and superiority.

Saw the moon get a tan
A lighthearted and humorous line that is still enigmatic, perhaps suggesting that even the natural world doesn't always make sense.

On the beach with no sand
Another example of a surreal image that is both concrete and abstract at the same time, implying the wavering line between reality and imagination.

Something came and something ran
Despite the confusion of the previous lines, this one implies that something important has happened, and then vanished just as quickly.

To make up my mind
The singer is grappling with a decision, but it's not entirely clear what that decision is about.

Is it bleak or it fine?
The fact that the singer can't decide whether the situation is negative or positive shows the complexity of the emotions being described.

She looked a little doubtful
This line introduces a potential romantic interest, who is herself uncertain or skeptical about something.

Smirked and said it's divine
Despite the doubt, the romantic interest still uses religious language to describe the situation, adding to the mystery and complexity of the emotions.

To light with no lime
A metaphorical line that seems to refer to a lack of resources (lime being a material used to make cement), but with a positive spin (light still shines even without it).

Sometimes
An understated ending to the first verse, implying that these complicated feelings are something that come and go, without a clear pattern or explanation.

Oh it's too late I can't stop
The beginning of the chorus, indicating that something has taken hold of the singer beyond their control.

Moving my mouth
The physical manifestation of the emotions that have taken hold, without necessarily any meaning behind the words themselves.

I'll shush but I'll shout
A contradiction that suggests the singer is trying to restrain themselves, but also can't help but express themselves.

Something's got a hold of me
Repeating the idea from the first line of the chorus, that the singer is being controlled by their emotions.

Those words coming out
Despite the singer's attempts to control themselves, words are still flowing out, seemingly of their own accord.

Like froth on a stout
An image that implies something bubbling up and spilling over, perhaps representing the overwhelming nature of the emotions.

Dreamboat's sailing into
This line introduces new imagery, switching from earlier themes of mystery and unpredictability to something more romantic and positive.

Stormy weather I see
Despite the romantic overtones, there is still a hint of conflict or struggle, represented by bad weather.

Salty debris
A small detail that helps to add color to the image of a storm-tossed boat, and also reinforces the theme of unpredictability.

Cows and tigers jumping at some
A nonsensical image that could be interpreted in a number of ways, but seems to imply movement and chaos.

Mad dignity
A paradoxical phrase that could suggest defiance or confidence in the face of adversity.

But passionately we'll be
Despite the chaos and uncertainty, there is still a sense of passion and commitment in the face of adversity.

Oh finding
The beginning of the final verse, that leads to a more positive conclusion to the song.

Ways without words
Suggesting that communication can take many forms beyond just spoken language, reinforcing the theme of complexity and multiplicity.

To sing and to purr
Another example of a nonverbal form of communication that can be just as powerful as words.

Loving without declarations
This line implies a more mature form of love that doesn't require grand gestures or proclamations, but rather small gestures and quiet moments.

Stuttered and slurred
A description of communication that is less than perfect, but still meaningful in its own way.

Elephants blurred
An image that reinforces the idea that even big or important things can be hard to see clearly or understand.

Nerves resisting urges serve
A tricky line that suggests that sometimes holding back can be just as important as acting on impulses.

To speak with no sight
Another example of how communication can be complex and multilayered, with different senses and faculties playing into it.

A bat taking flight
A metaphorical reference to the idea of finding one's bearings or direction, despite the chaos or uncertainty around.

Only to find tooth marks
A strange and surprising twist to the line, suggesting that even when things are going well, there can still be unpleasant surprises.

In that sex dynamite
An explicit reference to sexuality, which contrasts with the more philosophical tone of the earlier lines.

My girl's got a bite
A more playful reference to sexuality, showing that there is still room for humor and lightheartedness even in the midst of complex emotions.

That's right
A simple and affirming end to the song, that reinforces the idea that despite the complexity and confusion of the emotions being described, there is still a sense of joy and satisfaction to be found.