Meaning of "The Stranger" by Billy Joel

"The Stranger" by Billy Joel delves into the various masks or personas that each person carries, emphasizing the idea that we all have different sides to ourselves that we keep hidden from others. Joel suggests that we only show these hidden faces when we are alone and no one is watching. These faces can be seen as the different roles we play in society or the different personas we adopt in different situations. They can be as diverse as satin, steel, silk, or leather, representing both strength and delicacy. The song speaks to our fascination with trying on different faces, highlighting the allure and excitement of exploring different aspects of ourselves.

The song also explores the complexities of love and the importance of being open and truthful with our partners. Joel points out that despite sharing many secrets with our loved ones, there are still some hidden parts of ourselves that we never reveal. He questions why we are surprised when our partners fail to see the stranger within us, and whether we have ever truly let our lovers witness the stranger that exists within ourselves. This suggests that true intimacy requires vulnerability and a willingness to show all sides of ourselves, even the ones we might be reluctant to reveal.

Furthermore, the song serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of not being open and honest in relationships. Joel reflects on his own experience of coming home to a woman whom he did not recognize. When he tries to understand why she has changed, she refuses to answer, symbolizing a breakdown in communication and understanding. This encounter makes Joel feel like a stranger himself, highlighting the profound emotional impact of not truly knowing or being known by our partners. The song encourages us to learn from these experiences and not be afraid to try again in love, as everyone goes through rough patches and moments of feeling like a stranger to oneself or others.

The lyrics also suggest that the stranger within us can be a source of inspiration and desire. Joel acknowledges that the stranger is not always evil or wrong, challenging conventional notions of what is considered acceptable or normal. He suggests that despite our best intentions, we cannot suppress the fire within us. This can be seen as an affirmation of the importance of embracing all aspects of ourselves, even those that may be seen as unconventional or unconventional. The song ultimately suggests that the stranger within us can serve as a catalyst for growth and self-discovery, even if it challenges societal norms or expectations.