The essence of the song is contained in the following lines.
Trying my best is the only true goal I feel is real
Make me the best I can be
Show me no mercy love, show me no mercy
The singer of this song does not want unconditional love from his partner. He wants her to support him by helping him be the best person he is capable of becoming.
He does not want to be falsely praised or lied to, he wants her pride to be genuine and her love to be based on reality and not romance. In this way he will always know what he can do to be deserving of her love. When one sees life only through their eyes, they can lose perspective and become blind to who they are becoming. Yet, with the help of the caring eyes born in an intimate relationship one can truly become the best they an be.
lyrics
No Mercy 4/20/87
Nothing much is coming my way
Even though I keep believing
That a lusty heart will always win
Even if I make no money
Even if I have no friends
Let my spirit race with the wind
I just want to make you so darn proud of me
Gain your confidence in our possibilities
Girl guide me, you know I’ve got to keep moving
Keep me going straight, you know I’ve got to keep pushing
Show me no mercy
Trying my best is the only true goal I feel, is real
Never let me get forgetful, never let me get so vain
As to think this life crystal clear
Never let me lie to myself
Never let me hurt anyone
I just want to make you so darn proud of me
Gain your confidence in our possibilities
Girl guide me, you know I’ve got to keep moving
Keep me going straight, you know I’ve got to keep pushing
Show me no mercy
Trying my best is the only true goal I feel, is real
Give me the strength and I always push on
Don’t let me settle for anything small
Push me along to give it my all
Push me, push me along
Trying my best is the only true goal I feel is real
Make me the best I can be
Show me no mercy love, show me no mercy
credits
from Gotta B Funky,
released June 10, 2017
Vocals Jim Guido
Backup Vocals Robin Cape, Jim Guido
Guitar John Barden
Bass John Barden
Keyboards Jim Guido
Drums Ryan Thopson
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