Meaning of "John Doe" by Public Announcement

"John Doe" explores the theme of trust and dishonesty within a romantic relationship. The song portrays a couple who have lost faith in each other and resort to hiding things and avoiding transparency. Their actions, such as ignoring pagers or running to answer phone calls, suggest a lack of trust and a fear of confrontation. The constant questioning and accusations demonstrate the erosion of trust and the inability to communicate openly. Their obsession with identifying the unknown callers or acquaintances signifies their desperation to uncover the truth and regain trust in one another. The use of the names "John Doe" and "Jane Doe" further emphasizes the anonymity and insignificance of the people involved, as if their identities don't matter because trust has been shattered. The unresolved fade out at the end of the song reflects the lack of resolution in their relationship. Overall, "John Doe" highlights the destructive effects of dishonesty and the importance of trust and open communication in maintaining a healthy relationship.