You can't judge a book
the partners in crime Lyrics
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You can't judge honey by looking at the bee,
You can't judge a daughter by looking at the mother,
You can't judge a book by looking at the cover.
Oh can't you see,
Oh, well, you misjudge me.
I look like a farmer,
But I'm a lover,
Yeah, that's right,
That's so good.
You can't judge a fish by lookin' in the pond,
You can't judge right by looking at the wrong,
You can't judge one by looking at the other,
You can't judge a book by looking at the cover.
Oh can't you see,
Oh, well, you misjudge me.
I look like a farmer,
But I'm a Lover,
Can't judge a book by looking at the cover.
You can't judge sugar by looking at the cane,
You can't judge a woman by looking at her man,
You can't judge a sister by looking at her brother,
You can't judge a book by looking at the cover.
Oh can't you see,
Oh, well, you misjudge me.
I look like a farmer,
But I'm a lover,
Can't judge a book by looking at the cover.
The lyrics of "You Can't Judge a Book" by Partners in Crime convey the message that appearances can be deceiving and that it is not fair to judge someone or something based solely on superficial observations. The refrain emphasizes the idea that initial impressions can often lead to misunderstandings and misjudgments. The analogy of not being able to judge an apple by looking at the tree or honey by looking at the bee sets the tone for the rest of the song, suggesting that things are not always as they seem on the surface.
The lyrics go on to highlight various scenarios where misconceptions may arise, such as judging a daughter by her mother, a fish by the pond, or sugar by the cane. These examples further drive home the point that true understanding and insight require looking beyond the outer appearances and taking the time to truly get to know someone or something. The repeated refrain reminds the listener that the singer has been misjudged based on their outward appearance, emphasizing the need to look deeper to uncover the true nature of a person or situation.
The bridge of the song introduces the idea that the singer may look like a farmer on the outside but is actually a lover on the inside, illustrating the theme of duality and complexity within individuals. This juxtaposition challenges the listener to reevaluate their preconceived notions and biases, urging them to consider that there is often more to someone than meets the eye. The lyrics emphasize the importance of not jumping to conclusions and instead approaching each person or situation with an open mind and a willingness to look beyond the surface.
Overall, "You Can't Judge a Book" by Partners in Crime serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of snap judgments and the necessity of seeing beyond appearances. The song's timeless message of not judging a book by its cover resonates with listeners, encouraging empathy, understanding, and an appreciation for the complexities of human nature. By unpacking the song's lyrics and exploring its themes, listeners are invited to reflect on their own tendencies to make assumptions and are challenged to approach others with a deeper level of compassion and understanding.
Line by Line Meaning
You can't judge an apple by looking at the tree
You can't determine the true value of something by just observing its outward appearance
You can't judge honey by looking at the bee
You can't assess the quality of something based solely on its source
You can't judge a daughter by looking at the mother
You can't make assumptions about an individual based on their familial connections
You can't judge a book by looking at the cover
You can't form an accurate opinion about something or someone based solely on initial impressions
I look like a farmer, but I'm a lover
My appearance may suggest one thing, but my true nature or character is different
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: Willie Dixon
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind