Meaning of "When The Sky Comes Looking For You" by Motörhead

"When The Sky Comes Looking For You" explores the theme of accountability and the fear of facing the consequences of one's actions. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who is confronted with the reality of their past mistakes and is left to contemplate how they will navigate through the loneliness and hardship that awaits them. The repeated questions of "what will you do" and "what will you say" highlight the protagonist's sense of uncertainty and desperation, as they grapple with the weight of their wrongdoing.

The line "remembering all of your crimes" suggests a level of guilt and remorse, indicating that the protagonist is aware of the wrongs they have committed. This guilt is intensified by the imagery of being knocked out of their shoes and being left without a clue when the sky comes looking for them. The sky serves as a metaphor for the consequences of their actions, and its search for them represents the unavoidable reckoning that awaits.

The lyrics also touch upon the idea of seeking external sources of help or placing blame on others. The protagonist questions who would attempt a rescue or who could be sued, possibly indicating a desire to shift the responsibility onto someone else. However, the song suggests that these attempts at evasion or passing the blame are futile, as there is no escaping the consequences when the sky comes looking for you.

The line "looks like the same old story, looks like the same old game" suggests a sense of resignation and repetition. The protagonist may have been through similar situations before, where they faced the repercussions of their actions, and each time they were unable to achieve glory or escape from the consequences. The mention of possible insanity implies that the weight of their past misdeeds is beginning to take a toll on their mental state.

Overall, "When The Sky Comes Looking For You" serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of accountability and facing the consequences of one's actions. It emphasizes the futility of trying to escape or evade the repercussions, highlighting that true absolution can only be found through accepting responsibility and working towards redemption.