Meaning of "Like A Stranger" by Fine Young Cannibals

The lyrics of "Like A Stranger" delve into the painful experience of feeling disconnected and alienated from a loved one. The protagonist reflects on the challenges of living without their partner, emphasizing the difficulty of adapting to the absence and changes that have occurred during that time. The repeated refrain of "You're like a stranger" highlights the emotional distance between the two individuals, with the fear of never regaining the intimacy once shared. The mention of the partner being too long in an institution adds a layer of complexity, suggesting a barrier to communication or understanding that has arisen. The protagonist's contemplation of seeing their partner with someone else and feeling lost in their own emotions captures the uncertainty and desperation of longing for reconciliation. The final lines reflect a sense of confusion and self-doubt, questioning where things went wrong and what could have been done differently to prevent the current state of estrangement. Overall, the lyrics convey a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the struggle to maintain a sense of connection in the face of change and distance.