The Stranger

Billy Joel's 'The Stranger' delves into the complexities of the human psyche and the multifaceted nature of personal identity. The song suggests that everyone has hidden aspects of themselves that they choose to reveal only in certain situations or to certain people. The 'faces' that we 'hide away forever' and occasionally 'take out and show ourselves' are metaphors for the different personas or masks that individuals wear in various contexts of their lives. These faces can range from 'satin' to 'steel,' indicating the diversity of these hidden personas in terms of their softness or hardness, their vulnerability or resilience.

The song also touches on the theme of love and the inherent risks involved in truly opening up to another person. Joel points out that even in close relationships, there are secrets that remain untold, and he challenges the listener to consider whether they have ever allowed their partner to see their own hidden 'stranger.' This introspective questioning encourages listeners to reflect on their own transparency and honesty in their relationships. The notion of being surprised by the stranger within suggests a moment of self-discovery or realization that can be both shocking and enlightening.

Finally, 'The Stranger' speaks to the human condition of making mistakes and the importance of resilience. The lyrics 'Don't be afraid to try again / Everyone goes south every now and then' serve as a reminder that failure is a universal experience and not something to be feared. The song concludes with a recognition that the 'stranger' within us can be a source of inspiration, not necessarily evil or wrong, and that sometimes giving in to our desires can lead to profound experiences, even if they challenge our conventional understanding of right and wrong.