"Get a Leg Up" by John Mellencamp is a song about a man's encounter with a mysterious and seductive woman. The lyrics revolve around the man's initial impression of the woman and the unexpected turn of events that follow. The song begins with the narrator cautioning himself and others not to look at or touch the woman, as she seems to hold power and potential danger. He suggests that if anyone develops any inappropriate thoughts about her, they may come to regret it. He assumes that the woman is thinking the same way about him, urging him to behave appropriately. However, the narrator is surprised when the woman leans over and whispers something in his ear. The lyrics don't explicitly reveal what she says, but it can be inferred that she is suggesting a sexual encounter. This surprises the narrator, as he realizes his initial judgment about her was mistaken. As the song progresses, the narrator admits that he may not always be right in his first impressions. He recalls a previous experience in which he misjudged someone, emphasizing that hasty judgments can be wrong. He advises others to have a good time but also to protect themselves and make wise choices. The song ultimately suggests that appearances can be deceiving and that it is important to keep an open mind. It challenges the idea of making assumptions about others based solely on outward appearances or initial impressions.
