Meaning of "Who Can It Be Now?" by Colin Hay

Colin Hay's "Who Can It Be Now?" delves into the theme of isolation and the desire for personal space. The lyrics capture the feelings of introversion and the overwhelming need to retreat from the outside world. The narrator yearns for solitude and peace, emphasizing their weariness and uneasiness with the late-night disturbance.

The repeated question of "Who can it be now?" reflects the narrator's increasing anxiety and frustration towards the unwelcome visitor at the door. The uncertainty and fear associated with the unknown adds to the tension of the song, as the narrator imagines possible threats or unwanted intrusions. However, there is also a sense of paranoia and self-doubt in the lyrics. The narrator questions their own mental state, wondering if their anxieties are rooted in reality or if they are simply products of their own imagination. This internal struggle adds layers of complexity to the song's meaning, highlighting the narrator's vulnerability and fragility.

The song can be seen as a reflection of the human need for personal space and boundaries. It illuminates the discomfort experienced when those boundaries are violated, making it difficult to find solace and stability. The lyrics also touch on the concept of mental health and how it can influence one's perceptions and interactions with the world. The narrator's plea for privacy might be interpreted as a cry for help or a desperate attempt to hold onto their sense of sanity and control.

Ultimately, "Who Can It Be Now?" explores universal themes of isolation, anxiety, self-doubt, and the difficulty of maintaining boundaries in an intrusive world. It invites listeners to empathize with the narrator's struggle and reflect on their own experiences with reclusiveness and the desire for privacy.