The narrator of the song is being accused of being obsessed with someone and constantly following them. The person they are singing about calls them a loser and a fool, but also admits to being haunted by the narrator. The narrator questions why they are being called and why they are being followed by this person.

Meaning of "Following" by The Bangles

The lyrics of "Following" by The Bangles portray a complex and tumultuous relationship. The narrator is depicted as being infatuated with someone and constantly following them, which the other person perceives as obsessive and undesirable. The accusatory tone suggests that the narrator's actions have caused trouble between the two individuals after high school. The narrator, however, defends themselves by claiming to have been a "good girl" until this person showed them what it means to be true. This suggests that the intense feelings and actions were a result of the profound impact this person had on the narrator's life.

The song delves into the theme of unrequited love or a one-sided infatuation. The narrator's portrayal of being called a "loser" and a "shadowing fool" reveals a sense of self-deprecation and low self-esteem. They are fully aware of the other person's negative perception of them but continue to follow and seek their attention regardless. This highlights the relatable experiences of unrequited love, where one might feel powerless and desperate for the affection of someone who does not reciprocate those feelings.

Furthermore, the lyrics touch on the concept of transformation. The line "But I was a good girl, yeah, till you taught me what it means to be true" suggests that the narrator's obsession and following behavior were born out of the influence and impact of this person. They were willing to change and cross boundaries in their pursuit of what they believed was true love or connection. This reflects the power that love or infatuation can have in shaping one's identity and actions.