Nobody Loves You (When You're Down And Out)

John Lennon's 'Nobody Loves You (When You're Down And Out)' is a poignant exploration of the fickle nature of fame and human relationships. The song delves into the idea that people are often only interested in you when you are successful or can offer them something. When you're 'down and out,' or struggling, those same people tend to disappear. This theme is evident in the repeated lines, 'Nobody loves you when you're down and out / Nobody sees you when you're on cloud nine,' highlighting the superficiality and self-interest that can pervade human interactions.

Lennon also touches on the concept of mutual exploitation in relationships with the line, 'I'll scratch your back and you scratch mine.' This suggests a transactional nature to many relationships, where people are willing to help each other only if there is something in it for them. The darker twist, 'I'll scratch your back and you knife mine,' further emphasizes the potential for betrayal and the cutthroat reality of the world he describes.

The song also reflects Lennon's personal experiences and disillusionment with the music industry and fame. Phrases like 'it's all show biz' and 'Everytime I put my finger on it, it slips away' convey a sense of frustration and the elusive nature of genuine connection and success. The imagery of looking in the mirror and lying in darkness suggests a deep introspection and perhaps a struggle with self-identity amidst the chaos of public life. Ultimately, the song paints a bleak picture of human nature, where true love and loyalty are hard to come by, especially when one is no longer in the limelight.