Vampire Weekend

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Who gives a fuck about an Oxford comma?
I've seen those English dramas too; they're cruel
So if there's any other way to spell the word
It's fine with me, with me

[Chorus 1]
Why would you speak to me that way?
Especially when I always said that I
Haven't got the words for you
All your diction dripping with disdain
Through the pain, I always tell the truth

[Verse 2]
Who gives a fuck about an Oxford comma?
I climbed to Dharamsala too, I did
I met the highest Lama
His accent sounded fine to me, to me

[Pre-Chorus 1]
Take your handbook, it's no trick
Take the chapstick, put it on your lips
Crack a smile, adjust my tie
Know your boyfriend, unlike other guys

[Chorus 2]
Why would you lie 'bout how much coal you have?
Why would you lie about something dumb like that?
Why would you lie 'bout anything at all?
First the window, then it's to the wall
Lil Jon, he always tells the truth
[Instrumental Bridge]

[Pre-Chorus 2]
Check your passport, it's no trick
Take the chapstick, put it on your lips
Crack a smile, adjust my tie
Know your butler, unlike other guys

[Chorus 3]
Why would you lie 'bout how much coal you have?
Why would you lie about something dumb like that?
Why would you lie 'bout anything at all?
First the window, then it's to the wall
Why would you tape my conversations?
Show your paintings at the United Nations
Lil Jon, he always tells the truth

Have you ever heard of an Oxford comma? If not, Vampire Weekend's hit single "Oxford Comma" may be the perfect introduction to this grammatical concept. This track is the second song on the eponymous debut album of Vampire Weekend, an American indie rock band based in New York City. The song is definitely quirky and lyrically playful, but that's what makes it so endearing. It is just one of the band's many offerings that has made them stand out in the world of indie rock music.

About Oxford Comma

"Oxford Comma" is a song that is full of anything and everything from slick guitar riffs to Lil Jon references. Lead singer Ezra Koenig takes the listener on a journey through his complicated relationship with grammar, all while presenting a take on the Oxford comma that is both humorous and clever. While Koenig is clearly not concerned with the importance of the Oxford comma, the song itself is emblematic of the band's ability to take conventional ideas and add their own unique spin to them.

When asked about the inspiration for the song, Koenig explained that he was not initially thinking about the Oxford comma, but rather the song's opening line just came to him while he sat at a piano. This is a testament to the band's creativity and ability to take even the most mundane concepts and create an interesting and dynamic song out of them.

The song's verses and chorus are a hodgepodge of ideas and references that will keep even the most attentive listener on their toes. Koenig employs a variety of literary devices, including alliteration and anaphora, to convey his message that the Oxford comma is not all that important, but that not giving a damn about it is.

It is worth noting that the song's reference to the Oxford comma is based on a real group at Columbia University called "Students for the Preservation of the Oxford Comma." This connection to a real-life organization adds an air of authenticity to the song and further emphasizes the band's ability to take everyday occurrences and turn them into memorable musical moments.

As of the release of their third album, "Modern Vampires Of The City," Vampire Weekend has not released another grammar-themed song. While Ezra Koenig has not ruled out the possibility of releasing another "punctuation jam," it seems unlikely that the band will attempt to rehash the same idea that made "Oxford Comma" such a standout hit.

Why Oxford Comma is a Hit

The success of "Oxford Comma" can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost, the song's catchy melody and clever lyrics make it an enjoyable and easy listen. The song's message, that it's okay to not take grammar too seriously, is something that many can relate to.

Another reason for the song's popularity is the way that the band presents the idea of the Oxford comma. While many might view grammar as stuffy and boring, Vampire Weekend takes this concept and adds their own personality and creativity to it. This makes the song stand out in the vast sea of indie rock music and has helped to cement the band's reputation as unique and innovative artists.

Ultimately, "Oxford Comma" is a hit because it represents what Vampire Weekend does best: creating catchy and engaging music while delivering a message that is both humorous and thought-provoking. The song is an excellent showcase of the band's talents and has helped to propel them to the top of the indie rock scene.

• Release Date: June 16, 2007
• Artist: Vampire Weekend