Gilbert O'Sullivan's song "Not That It Bothers Me" tells the story of a relationship between two people with a significant age difference. The narrator acknowledges that the age gap is noticeable and that the other person is almost twice their age. However, this age difference does not bother the narrator. The lyrics suggest that the narrator is deeply in love with the other person, evident by the fact that they keep a picture of them in their wallet for everyone to see. However, society perceives their relationship as unconventional, mistaking the other person for the narrator's mother. Despite this, the narrator remains unfazed by others' opinions. The song touches upon the power of love to transform individuals, turning even the most harmless person into someone dangerous in the eyes of society. The lyrics suggest that people can be cruel and judgmental, but the narrator fails to understand why. They recognize that their relationship may be perceived as odd, but they did not plan for it to be this way. The song also reveals a strained relationship with the narrator's parents. The narrator emphasizes their respect for both parents, acknowledging that without them, they would not exist. However, their parents disowned them entirely. Despite this rejection, the narrator claims that it does not bother them. Overall, "Not That It Bothers Me" explores themes of age difference, societal judgment, the power of love, and family rejection. It portrays the narrator's acceptance of their unconventional relationship and their ability to overlook the opinions and actions of others.
