Who Is He? (And What Is He To You?)

Bill Withers' song 'Who Is He? (And What Is He To You?)' delves into the complex emotions of suspicion, jealousy, and betrayal within a romantic relationship. The narrative unfolds as the protagonist notices a man staring at him and his partner, which triggers a cascade of doubts and questions. The partner's reaction—looking at the ground—only fuels his suspicions, suggesting that she might be hiding something. This initial encounter sets the stage for the protagonist's growing unease and the central question of the song: who is this man, and what is his relationship to her?

The lyrics are rich with metaphors and subtle cues that hint at infidelity. For instance, the line 'When I add the sum of you and me, I get confused when I keep coming up with 3' poignantly captures the protagonist's realization that there might be a third person involved in their relationship. This mathematical metaphor underscores the emotional turmoil and confusion he feels. The repeated questioning—'Who is he, and what is he to you?'—serves as a refrain that emphasizes his desperation for the truth and his struggle to understand the situation.

Bill Withers' soulful delivery and the song's bluesy undertones amplify the emotional weight of the lyrics. The song also touches on themes of male intuition and the societal stereotype that men lack emotional insight. Withers challenges this notion by portraying a man who is acutely aware of the subtle changes in his partner's behavior. The song ultimately serves as a poignant exploration of trust, love, and the painful uncertainties that can arise in intimate relationships.