Analysis

Mardy Bum

Arctic Monkeys · Mardy Bum

ALL
Verdict
Safe

Mild crude language, lighthearted relationship conflict

Detailed Analysis

These lyrics by Arctic Monkeys depict a relatable domestic argument between a couple, featuring mild humorous affection and frustration. The word 'arsed' is a mildly crude British colloquialism, and 'mardy bum' is Northern English slang for someone acting childishly or sulky — neither rises to the level of strong profanity. There is no sexual content, violence, drug or alcohol references, or truly disturbing imagery. The metaphor of 'looking down the barrel of a gun' is clearly figurative and used to describe an intense frown, not actual violence. The mature theme is simply relationship conflict and reconciliation, presented in a lighthearted, comedic tone. This content is broadly appropriate for most ages, with perhaps a small note for younger children regarding the minor crude language.

Themes

relationship conflict

reconciliation

affection

mild language

communication

humor

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Lyrics

Well, now then, mardy bum I've seen your frown And it's like looking down the barrel of a gun And it goes off And out come all these words Oh, there's a very pleasant side to you A side I much prefer It's one that laughs and jokes around Remember cuddles in the kitchen Yeah, to get things off the ground And it was up, up and away Oh, but it's right hard to remember that On a day like today when you're all argumentative And you've got the face on Well, now then, mardy bum Oh I'm in trouble again, aren't I? I thought as much 'Cause you turned over there And pulling that silent disappointment face The one that I can't bear Well can't we just laugh and joke around? Remember cuddles in the kitchen Yeah, to get things off the ground And it was up, up and away Oh, but it's right hard to remember that On a day like today when you're all argumentative And you've got the face on And yeah, I'm sorry I was late But I missed the train And then the traffic was a state And I can't be arsed to carry on in this debate That reoccurs oh when you say I don't care But of course I do, yeah, I clearly do So laugh and joke around Remember cuddles in the kitchen? Yeah, to get things off the ground And it was up, up and away Ah but it's right hard to remember that On a day like today when you're all argumentative And you've got the face on


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Analysis performed on September 20, 2026