Meaning of "Alien" by Atlanta Rhythm Section

The lyrics of "Alien" convey a theme of alienation and the longing for a sense of belonging. The protagonist of the song is depicted as someone who feels like an outsider, disconnected from the world around them. The repeated reference to feeling like an alien emphasizes this sense of detachment and otherness. The imagery of the sun going behind a cloud and walking down crowded streets alone highlights a feeling of isolation and invisibility. The use of the word "number" suggests a depersonalization, as if the protagonist is not seen as an individual, but rather a faceless entity. The desire for mercy and the plea for help in finding their way home further emphasize the deep yearning for connection and acceptance. The lyrics suggest that this feeling of being an alien is not unique to the protagonist alone, but that everyone experiences moments of alienation and detachment at some point in their lives. The repetition of the lines "Feelin' like we don't belong / Have mercy, cried the alien" invites the listener to reflect on their own experiences of feeling like an outsider and offers a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles. Ultimately, the song speaks to the universal human need for a sense of belonging and the hope of finding one's way back "home," whether that be a physical place or a state of emotional connection.