Misery Business: Lyrics & Translation

Hey guys! Ever found yourself belting out Paramore's "Misery Business" at the top of your lungs, but not quite grasping the full meaning behind those killer lyrics? Or maybe you're just curious about what Hayley Williams and the band were trying to convey with this iconic anthem? Well, you've come to the right place! This article will dive deep into the "Misery Business" lyrics, providing a detailed translation and exploring the story behind the song. So, grab your headphones, get ready to reminisce about the 2000s, and let's unravel the magic of "Misery Business" together!

Decoding the Lyrics: A Verse-by-Verse Breakdown

Okay, let's break down the lyrics of "Misery Business" piece by piece, shall we? We'll go through each verse, chorus, and bridge, providing a clear translation and explaining the meaning behind the words. Get ready for some lyrical enlightenment!

Verse 1: Setting the Scene

The opening verse immediately throws us into the drama. Hayley's lyrics paint a picture of a situation where someone close to her has been betrayed. The lyrics use vivid imagery to describe the narrator's observations and feelings about the unfolding events. It's all about the initial realization that something is amiss and the simmering anger that starts to build.

• Original Lyrics: "I'm in the business of misery / Let's take it from the top / She's got a body like an hourglass, it's ticking like a clock / It's a matter of time before we all run out / When I thought he was mine she caught him by the mouth"
• Translation: "Aku berada dalam bisnis kesengsaraan / Mari kita mulai dari awal / Dia punya tubuh seperti jam pasir, berdetak seperti jam / Tinggal masalah waktu sebelum kita semua kehabisan waktu / Saat kupikir dia milikku, dia menangkapnya dengan mulutnya"
• Meaning: This verse sets the stage for the entire song. The narrator declares that she's "in the business of misery," suggesting that she's about to expose some drama. The hourglass metaphor implies that time is running out, and the betrayal is inevitable. The final line reveals the core of the conflict: the narrator's boyfriend was caught kissing another girl.

Chorus: The Anthem of Satisfaction

The chorus is where the song truly takes off. It's a raw, unapologetic expression of satisfaction at seeing the "other woman" face the consequences of her actions. This is the part everyone remembers and sings along to with gusto!

• Original Lyrics: "Whoa, I never meant to brag / But I got him where I want him now / Whoa, it was never my intention to boast / But God does it feel so good / 'Cause I got him where I want him now"
• Translation: "Whoa, aku tidak pernah bermaksud untuk menyombongkan diri / Tapi aku mendapatkannya di tempat yang kuinginkan sekarang / Whoa, bukan niatku untuk membual / Tapi Tuhan, rasanya sangat menyenangkan / Karena aku mendapatkannya di tempat yang kuinginkan sekarang"
• Meaning: The chorus is a confession of sorts. The narrator admits that she didn't intend to brag, but she can't help but feel a sense of triumph. The repetition of "I got him where I want him now" emphasizes her sense of control and satisfaction. It's a bit controversial, sure, but undeniably catchy!

Verse 2: Digging Deeper into the Betrayal

Verse two delves deeper into the character of the "other woman." The lyrics suggest she was manipulative and opportunistic, using her charm to get what she wanted. There's a sense of resentment and judgment in these lines, highlighting the narrator's perspective on the situation.

• Original Lyrics: "She's laughing with her friends, she's looking over here, oh / I'm gonna follow her back, she's gonna wish she didn't know / That I know, oh, whoa / I wouldn't wanna be her right now / Or ever, had to give it up for the sound / He's in the business of misery / Let's take it from the top / She's got a body like an hourglass that's ticking like a clock"
• Translation: "Dia tertawa dengan teman-temannya, dia melihat ke sini, oh / Aku akan mengikutinya kembali, dia akan berharap dia tidak tahu / Bahwa aku tahu, oh, whoa / Aku tidak ingin menjadi dia sekarang / Atau selamanya, harus menyerah demi suara / Dia berada dalam bisnis kesengsaraan / Mari kita mulai dari awal / Dia punya tubuh seperti jam pasir yang berdetak seperti jam"
• Meaning: The narrator observes the "other woman" seemingly unbothered by the situation. This fuels her desire for revenge. The lines "I wouldn't wanna be her right now" express a sense of pity mixed with schadenfreude. The repetition of the hourglass metaphor reinforces the idea that time is running out for the "other woman."

Bridge: A Moment of Reflection (and Maybe Regret?)

The bridge offers a brief moment of reflection. The narrator seems to acknowledge that her actions might not be entirely justified, but she's too caught up in the moment to stop. There's a hint of vulnerability in these lines, suggesting that she's not completely comfortable with her role in the drama.

• Original Lyrics: "I watched his wildest dreams come true / Not one of them involving you / Just watch my wildest dreams come true / Not one of them involving you"
• Translation: "Aku melihat mimpi terliarnya menjadi kenyataan / Tak satu pun dari mereka melibatkanmu / Saksikan saja mimpi terliarku menjadi kenyataan / Tak satu pun dari mereka melibatkanmu"
• Meaning: This bridge highlights the shift in power dynamics. The narrator emphasizes that the "other woman" was never a part of the boyfriend's dreams, and she implies that the same is true in reverse. It's a way of asserting her dominance and justifying her actions.

Chorus: The Anthem of Satisfaction (Reprise)

The chorus returns, even more powerful than before. By now, the listener is fully invested in the drama and ready to sing along with every word. The repetition reinforces the narrator's sense of triumph and satisfaction.

• Original Lyrics: "Whoa, I never meant to brag / But I got him where I want him now / Whoa, it was never my intention to boast / But God does it feel so good / 'Cause I got him where I want him now"
• Translation: "Whoa, aku tidak pernah bermaksud untuk menyombongkan diri / Tapi aku mendapatkannya di tempat yang kuinginkan sekarang / Whoa, bukan niatku untuk membual / Tapi Tuhan, rasanya sangat menyenangkan / Karena aku mendapatkannya di tempat yang kuinginkan sekarang"
• Meaning: (See above explanation of the Chorus)

The Story Behind the Song: Real-Life Inspiration

Okay, so now that we've dissected the lyrics, let's talk about the real-life inspiration behind "Misery Business." Hayley Williams has been pretty open about the fact that the song is based on her own experiences in high school. Back in the day, she had a crush on a guy who was with another girl. Hayley saw herself as the "good girl" and the other girl as the "bad girl" who was trying to steal her crush. As you can imagine, this created a lot of drama and resentment.

However, as Hayley has matured, she's expressed some regret about the lyrics of "Misery Business." She's acknowledged that the song is a bit anti-feminist, as it pits women against each other and blames the "other woman" for the boyfriend's actions. In recent years, Paramore has even stopped performing the song live, recognizing that the message doesn't align with their current values.

Why "Misery Business" Still Resonates Today

Despite its controversial themes, "Misery Business" remains one of Paramore's most popular songs. Why? Because it's relatable! Let's face it, most of us have experienced jealousy, betrayal, and the desire for revenge at some point in our lives. "Misery Business" taps into those raw emotions and provides a cathartic release. Plus, it's an undeniably catchy song with a killer guitar riff. It's the perfect anthem for anyone who's ever felt wronged!

The Legacy of "Misery Business"

"Misery Business" is more than just a catchy pop-punk song. It's a cultural phenomenon that has resonated with millions of people around the world. It's a song that captures the angst and drama of adolescence, the complexities of relationships, and the messy emotions that come with being human. While the song's message may be a bit outdated, its impact on music and pop culture is undeniable.

So, the next time you hear "Misery Business" on the radio, take a moment to appreciate its lyrical complexity, its catchy melody, and its enduring legacy. And maybe, just maybe, reflect on your own experiences with jealousy, betrayal, and the desire for revenge. But remember, it's always better to channel those emotions into something positive rather than getting into the "business of misery" yourself!

Conclusion: More Than Just a Song

Alright, guys, we've reached the end of our lyrical journey through Paramore's "Misery Business." We've explored the meaning behind the lyrics, delved into the story behind the song, and discussed its cultural impact. Whether you love it or hate it, there's no denying that "Misery Business" is a significant piece of music history. So, keep rocking out, keep exploring the meaning behind your favorite songs, and remember to always strive for kindness and understanding in your own relationships. Peace out!