Meaning of "I Can See It in Your Eyes" by Men At Work

The lyrics of "I Can See It in Your Eyes" by Men At Work depict the realization of a failing relationship. The narrator senses that their partner has lost interest and is emotionally distant, which is evident through their constant staring at the floor. The song conveys the bittersweet feelings of nostalgia and regret as the narrator reflects on various aspects of their relationship. They mention looking up their mother's recipes, symbolizing their attempt to reconcile by trying to please their partner with familiar comforts. However, this effort fails, and they lament not knowing what they did wrong. Looking at the school photographs and reminiscing about shared memories signifies their longing for the loving and affectionate moments they once had. The mention of college rooms and locker doors indicates that they have moved on from those times, leaving the narrator wondering who now occupies those spaces. The narrator dreams of being on ships at sea, longing for a different life and escape from their current situation. However, they wake up with a sense of fear and reality, realizing that they cannot escape the problems in their relationship. They acknowledge their own role in the deterioration, taking responsibility by stating, "I've only got myself to blame." The lyrics also touch upon the passage of time, referencing winter kisses and chasing wild geese in the past, highlighting the longing for lost moments and the recognition that those times are long gone. Ultimately, the narrator acknowledges that their partner is moving on to something else, signaling the end of their relationship.