Meaning of "Monkey Man" by The Rolling Stones

The lyrics of "Monkey Man" can be interpreted as a metaphorical exploration of identity and nonconformity. The narrator describes themselves as a "fleabit peanut monkey" and acknowledges that their friends are "junkies," indicating their outsider status. However, they quickly dismiss this as untrue, suggesting that they are not the societal labels imposed upon them. The comparison to a cold Italian pizza and a lemon squeezer may reflect a desire for something refreshing or meaningful in life. The line "But I've been bit and I've been tossed around by every she-rat in this town" could represent the narrator's experiences with unsuccessful relationships or the constant challenges they face in their environment.

The second verse continues with the narrator's self-deprecating descriptions, mentioning being bitten by a boar and having an unmade bed, both signifying brokenness and imperfection. Despite these setbacks, the narrator declares their resilience and ability to persevere. The mention of being "too Messianic" or "too Satanic" suggests the narrator's awareness of societal expectations and potentially rejecting them. They find comfort in their shared identification as "monkey" with the person they are singing to, reinforcing the theme of identity and finding solace in mutual understanding.

Overall, "Monkey Man" conveys a sense of individuality and defiance against societal norms. The narrator embraces their unconventional nature, finding strength in their identity as a "monkey" and seeking a connection with someone who shares that same understanding. The lyrics may also reflect the experiences of the band members themselves, who faced criticism and controversy throughout their career for their rebellious image and behavior.