Meaning of "Code of Silence" by Billy Joel

The lyrics of "Code of Silence" explore the theme of keeping secrets and choosing to remain silent despite having a lot to say. The protagonist is haunted by their past experiences, which have left them with deep emotional scars. They have made a vow to themselves to keep these experiences hidden from others, believing that certain things should not be shared. The code of silence they adhere to is a way to protect themselves and the relationships they hold dear, as speaking out could potentially break friendships or cause more harm.

The song touches upon the internal struggle the protagonist faces. They admit to still feeling anger and pain, but they have learned to deal with these emotions in a different way. The code of silence they follow becomes a coping mechanism, allowing them to maintain a semblance of control over their emotions. However, the lyrics also suggest that living by this code of silence can be a kind of madness. By suppressing their feelings, the protagonist denies themselves the opportunity to heal and find solace in sharing their experiences.

The chorus of the song expresses the frustration of not being able to talk about one's inner turmoil. The repetition of "you can't talk about it" emphasizes the restrictions the protagonist feels. The lyrics also question the validity of living by such a code, questioning whether it is worth sacrificing self-expression and the chance for emotional release.

The final verse introduces the idea that the protagonist has paid for their mistakes and carries the consequences of their past actions. It suggests that perhaps it is time to break the code of silence and let others in. The lyrics acknowledge the difficulty in doing so, as it requires vulnerability and the risk of being regarded as a fool. Nonetheless, the protagonist recognizes the weight of their memories and the toll it takes on them.

Overall, "Code of Silence" delves into the internal struggle and conflict between wanting to express one's emotions and the fear of the consequences of breaking the code of silence. It explores the psychological toll of keeping secrets and the potential harm it can cause in the long run.