Please Don't Ask Me To Smile
You Am I · Other Songs - You Am I
I used to hold open the door for a girl
And she called me a wimp
She said there just isn't need to be so fucking polite
I politely agreed with her I think she was right
It just never entered my mind
That at 12 it all came down to chosing sides
You said that I'd die if I had nothing to do
Put a drink in my hand and I'll talk to anything that moves
I just refuse to give you what you think will make things right
Justifying hate when you've lost the will to fight
Would it be really in touch with the times
To put somebody down for choosing sides
And she said, show us them teeth
Give us them braces
Show us that dental work
That puts fear in 12 year old faces
I could make you feel
Even half worthwhile
Just please don't ask me to smile
And at times when it still feels right
I still hold open the door for a girl and I'll back down from a fight
And if there just isn't need to be so polite
At least it helps me sleep easier at night
It just never entered my mind
That it ever should come down to choosing sides
And she said, show us them teeth
Give us them braces
Show us that dental work
That puts fear in 12 year old faces
I could prove to you
That I do or don't get high
Just please don't ask me to smile
Please Don't Ask Me To Smile
Released by the Seattle indie rock band You Am I, "Please Don't Ask Me To Smile" stands as a defining track from their 1998 debut album, *The Great Escape*. The song exemplifies the group's signature blend of melodic pop sensibilities with the gritty, introspective lyricism characteristic of the grunge and alternative scenes of the late 1990s. With its driving rhythm and emotive vocals, the recording captures a moment of personal vulnerability and resilience, resonating deeply with listeners who appreciated the band's ability to balance commercial appeal with authentic emotional expression. As a cornerstone of their early discography, the track remains a staple for fans of the era's indie rock and continues to be celebrated for its enduring quality and lyrical depth.

