Ooh, yeah
She’s an idle child, high society
Never pushed a broom, didn’t physically
Her eyes are down on you, her nose is up
Never spill your whiskey when she fill your cup
I’m on the borderline
On the borderline
She goes struttin’ ’round, and she shows so much
With a neon sign saying, “Don’t you touch”
Between the devil and the deep blue sea
She use me like an anchor, got a hold on me
(On the borderline) See the danger sign
(On the borderline) Gettin’ outta line
(On the borderline) But it feels so good
On the borderline
On the borderline
On the borderline
Borderline, let’s go
You know, I shoot the dice to climb the money tree
But the poker man dealt a foul to me
She doesn’t want you when your pocket’s dry
The queen of hearts will kill you when your ace is high
On the borderline
On the borderline
She’s an idle child, high society
Never pushed a broom, didn’t physically
Her eyes are down on you, her nose is up
Never spill your whiskey when she fill your cup
(On the borderline) See the danger sign
(On the borderline) Gettin’ outta line
(On the borderline) But it feels so good
On the borderline
On the borderline
On the borderline, yeah
On the borderline, feelin’ good
I’m on the borderline, yeah
Borderline
Yeah, they’re gonna meet you there
Oh yeah
I’m goin’ across the borderline
I’m on the borderline (can you take it?)
On the borderline (you might love it)
On the borderline
If you want me, yes
Meet me on the borderline
Straddling Temptation and Danger
“Down On The Borderline” by AC/DC delves into the seductive pull of risk and desire. The lyrics paint a vivid portrait of a high-society woman who exudes confidence and power, drawing the narrator into a world where boundaries blur and consequences loom. References to gambling, neon lights, and the devil evoke a sense of living on the edge, chasing pleasures while teetering on the brink of trouble. The chorus emphasizes this state of being “on the borderline,” capturing both the thrill and the inherent danger of giving in to temptation.
The Lure of the High Life
AC/DC uses sharp imagery to highlight the contrasts between status and vulnerability, pleasure and peril. The woman’s allure is matched by her indifference—she’s captivating but unattainable, using her charm as both shield and weapon. The song’s energetic delivery mirrors this emotional tension, inviting listeners to embrace the excitement of crossing lines, even when the outcome is uncertain.
Song Credits
- Artist: AC/DC
- Songwriters: Angus Young, Malcolm Young, Brian Johnson
- Release Year: 1990
- Label: ATCO Records