Loner

Black Sabbath's song 'Loner' delves into the life of a solitary individual who is disconnected from society. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who is a 'friend to no one' and 'has no place to go.' This character is portrayed as someone who is deeply unhappy, with 'furtive eyes' and 'no one to sympathize' with him. The song captures the essence of loneliness and the emotional turmoil that comes with it, highlighting the man's inability to connect with others and his struggle to find happiness.

The song uses powerful metaphors to describe the loner's existence. He is referred to as a 'solitary man' and an 'enigmatic child,' suggesting that his isolation is both a choice and a mystery. The lyrics describe him as a 'riddle never solved' and a 'prisoner exiled,' emphasizing the depth of his solitude and the complexity of his inner world. The song raises questions about whether the loner can ever 'assimilate' and find happiness, or if he is doomed to live a life of isolation.

'Loner' also touches on the theme of self-imposed exile. The lyrics suggest that the loner is his 'own best friend but his own worst enemy,' indicating that his isolation is partly self-inflicted. The song explores the idea that communication is an 'impossibility' for him, and that the 'secrets of his past' are locked deep inside his head. This creates a sense of tragic inevitability, as the song wonders if he will ever find happiness, even in death. The haunting lyrics and melancholic tone of the song make it a poignant exploration of loneliness and the human condition.