The Masochism Tango Lyrics: Tom Lehrer’s Classic Song Analysis & Full Lyrics

the masochism tango lyrics

The Dark Humor of “The Masochism Tango” Lyrics

Tom Lehrer’s 1959 cult classic, “The Masochism Tango,” is a masterclass in darkly comedic songwriting. The lyrics paint a twisted yet playful portrait of a relationship steeped in pain and absurdity. Lines like “I ache for the touch of your lips, dear, but much more for the touch of your whips, dear” juxtapose romantic longing with BDSM-themed humor, creating a satirical take on love songs. Lehrer’s clever wordplay and exaggerated metaphors turn macabre themes into a whimsical dance of contradictions.

Key Themes and Memorable Lines

The song’s lyrics thrive on irony and over-the-top declarations of devotion. Notable examples include:

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• “You can burn my toast, you can spurn my advances” – blending mundane grievances with melodramatic suffering.
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• “Break my chair, it’s a gay old affair” – a pun-laden nod to both physical pain and carefree masochism.
• “Throw poison ivy in my underwear” – highlighting the song’s absurdist approach to discomfort as affection.

Each verse escalates the absurdity, turning traditional love song tropes on their head.

Structure and Musical Wordplay

Lehrer’s lyrics mimic the structure of a tango, complete with dramatic pauses and rhythmic repetition. Phrases like “you can poison my beer” or “you can kick where it hurts” are delivered with a waltz-like cadence, contrasting the cheerful melody with grim subject matter. The refrain “And we’ll dance the Masochism Tango” acts as a morbid punchline, reinforcing the song’s darkly comedic core.

Cultural Legacy of the Lyrics

Decades after its release, “The Masochism Tango” remains a staple of dark comedy, celebrated for its fearless embrace of taboo topics. The lyrics’ unapologetic blend of wit and shock value has inspired covers, parodies, and academic analyses. While rooted in mid-20th-century humor, its exploration of love-as-pain feels timeless, resonating with audiences who appreciate satire that dances on the edge of discomfort.