If you’ve ever wondered what “You Oughta Know” by Alanis Morissette is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.

You Oughta Know' by Alanis Morissette captures the intensity of feeling betrayed and abandoned after a deep romantic relationship ends unexpectedly.

So… what’s this song really about?

In 'You Oughta Know', Alanis Morissette delves into the turmoil and raw emotion stirred by the abrupt end of a significant relationship. The lyrics express deep betrayal and resentment, portraying a person grappling with the pain of being replaced and the lingering impact of unfulfilled promises. Morissette uses vivid imagery and confrontational language to communicate the bitterness and pain of realizing that her partner did not remain faithful either emotionally or physically. This song is frequently seen as a cathartic expression of reclaiming one's voice and agency in the aftermath of heartbreak, questioning the fairness of emotional burdens placed by former lovers. The track is characterized by its aggressive tone and visceral emotion, which resonated with many who have felt silenced or minimized in their own experiences of relationship breakdowns. Morissette challenges the norms of silent suffering typically expected from those who are heartbroken, instead giving voice to anger and demanding acknowledgment of her pain. This has positioned 'You Oughta Know' as an anthem of empowerment for those disillusioned by love, encouraging listeners to confront their feelings openly and directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What album is 'You Oughta Know' from?
'You Oughta Know' is from Alanis Morissette's 1995 album 'Jagged Little Pill.'

Q: Did 'You Oughta Know' win any awards?
Yes, 'You Oughta Know' won Grammy Awards for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance and Best Rock Song.

Lyrics to “You Oughta Know”

78 ContributorsYou Oughta Know Lyrics
[Pre-Chorus]
'Cause the love that you gave that we made
Wasn't able to make it enough for you to be open wide, no
And every time you speak her name
Does she know how you told me
You'd hold me until you died? 'Til you died
But you're still alive
[Chorus]
And I'm here to remind you
Of the mess you left when you went away
It's not fair to deny me
Of the cross I bear that you gave to me
You, you, you oughta know
[Bridge]
'Cause the joke that you laid in the bed that was me
And I'm not gonna fade as soon as you close your eyes
And you know it
And every time I scratch my nails
Down someone else's back I hope you feel it
Well, can you feel it?
[Chorus]
Well, I'm here to remind you
Of the mess you left when you went away
It's not fair to deny me
Of the cross I bear that you gave to me
You, you, you oughta know
Why I'm here to remind you
Of the mess you left when you went away
It's not fair to deny me
Of the cross I bear that you gave to me
You, you, you oughta know

You Oughta Know

What is “You Oughta Know” really about?

So… what’s this song really about?

Frequently Asked Questions

Lyrics to “You Oughta Know”