Meaning of "Privacy" by John Maus

The lyrics of "Privacy" by John Maus reflect a deep longing for solitude and seclusion from the outside world. The mention of dead bolts, windowed bars, lowered drapes, screened calls, and headphones all serve as physical barriers to keep others out and protect the speaker's privacy. This intense need for privacy may stem from a desire to disconnect from the pressures and intrusions of society, finding peace and contentment in solitude. The repetition of "Privacy, privacy" underscores the importance of this boundary, emphasizing the speaker's yearning for personal space and the ability to live life on their own terms. The final lines expressing happiness in being alone and the notion of no one truly knowing the speaker's inner self further reinforce the theme of privacy as a means of self-preservation and self-discovery.