The lyrics describe a night belonging to a figure named Sharkey, who is not present and is being missed by someone trying to reach him. Sharkey seems to be a mysterious and elusive character, as well as being connected with a sense of duplicity and paranoia. The setting evokes a sense of darkness and America as the backdrop.

Meaning of "Sharkey's Night" by Laurie Anderson

The lyrics of "Sharkey's Night" by Laurie Anderson delve into themes of loneliness, disconnection, and paranoia. Sharkey is portrayed as an enigmatic figure who is somehow intertwined with the narrator, even in his absence. The idea of multiple versions of oneself reflected in the eyes of another person creates a sense of unease and the feeling of being watched or imitated. The references to America as a dark and dangerous place suggest a deeper commentary on the state of society and the internal struggles of individuals within it. The repeated refrain of not being able to reach Sharkey symbolizes the difficulty in truly connecting with others and the search for meaning in a complex and perplexing world. Overall, the lyrics paint a picture of isolation and introspection in the face of a harsh and unforgiving reality.