: The song famously explores themes of gender roles and exclusion. Lead singer Susan Ottaviano sings, "It's not my fault that I'm not a boy," a lyric inspired by being denied entry to men's-only bars in New York City.
: Unlike later remixes, the original 12'' version was largely an extended arrangement of the single mix rather than a transformative overhaul, keeping its focus on the driving rhythm and bell melody. Lyrics & Cultural Context Book of Love - Boy (Original 12'' Mix Video)
: Songwriter Ted Ottaviano has stated the track was specifically written about Boy Bar , an exclusive gay club in the East Village. The lyrics capture the frustration of a woman with feelings for a man who is only interested in other men. : The song famously explores themes of gender