The song "Cheating" by Eric Burdon & The Animals tells the story of a person who discovers that their partner has been unfaithful. The lyrics express the narrator's knowledge and awareness of their partner's cheating behavior. The narrator acknowledges that their partner cheated on them while they were unaware or not paying attention. Despite this betrayal, the partner now wants the narrator back. The song begins with the repeated phrase "Cheating!" emphasizing the theme of infidelity. The lyrics mention the partner cheating when the narrator was not looking or aware of their actions. The narrator is certain of the cheating, expressing their belief and knowledge of the situation. The narrator reflects on their past relationship, remembering when their partner professed their love. However, it has been two years since they last saw each other, and the narrator feels that something tells them the partner has not been true. This realization leads the narrator to accuse their partner of cheating. The lyrics also reveal the narrator's disappointment and heartbreak. They had faith in the relationship and waited for their partner, but now realize they may have waited too long. The mention of drawing on their pension suggests that the narrator has reached an older age, indicating that they have invested a significant amount of time in the relationship. Overall, the song conveys a sense of betrayal and the narrator's understanding of their partner's unfaithfulness. The lyrics capture the emotional turmoil and give voice to the narrator's feelings of hurt and disappointment.
