What You Talking About?

Peter Bjorn and John's song 'What You Talking About?' delves into the themes of disillusionment, miscommunication, and the emotional toll of unfulfilled expectations. The lyrics paint a picture of a relationship that has soured over time, where the protagonist once looked up to someone as a hero but now sees them as just another boss. This shift in perception is accompanied by a sense of personal inadequacy, as the protagonist rates themselves as 'zero' and struggles to understand the other person's words and actions.

The song captures the frustration and confusion that come with feeling unheard and misunderstood. The protagonist's anger has dissipated, leaving behind a sense of emptiness and resignation. The line 'Five years as your understudy' suggests a long period of subservience and learning, only to be left in the dark about the true intentions and feelings of the other person. This lack of clarity is further emphasized by the repeated refrain, 'I can't understand what you talking about,' highlighting the communication breakdown that has become a central issue in their relationship.

The chorus, with its plea for lies over truth, underscores the protagonist's desperation for some form of connection, even if it is based on falsehoods. The need for permission and the inability to follow through on messages reflect a deep-seated insecurity and a longing for validation. The imagery of 'shining in your shadow' and 'waiting for my saviour' conveys a sense of being overshadowed and dependent, while the toast to the 'setting son' symbolizes the end of an era or relationship. Ultimately, the song is a poignant exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the pain of unmet expectations and miscommunication.