Follow Me Around

Radiohead's song "Follow Me Around" delves into themes of paranoia, societal pressure, and the feeling of being constantly watched or pursued. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone being followed, both literally and metaphorically, by an unseen force. The opening lines, "I see you in the dark / Corner of the street / Comin' after me," set a tense and foreboding tone, suggesting a sense of imminent danger or surveillance. This could be interpreted as a reflection of modern anxieties about privacy and the pervasive presence of technology in our lives.

The repeated refrain, "You follow me around," emphasizes the relentless nature of this pursuit. It suggests a feeling of inescapability, as if the protagonist is trapped in a cycle of being watched and chased. The mention of "Thatcher's children" and "drooling looney tunes" adds a layer of social commentary, possibly critiquing the political and cultural climate of the time. Margaret Thatcher's era in the UK was marked by significant social and economic changes, and the reference to her children could symbolize the lasting impact of her policies on society.

As the song progresses, the lyrics take a darker turn, with the protagonist expressing feelings of panic and existential dread. Lines like "Nowadays I get panicked / I cease to exist / I have ceased to exist" convey a deep sense of disconnection and numbness. This could be seen as a commentary on the alienating effects of modern life, where constant surveillance and societal pressures can lead to a loss of self and a feeling of emptiness. The phrase "The words are out of ink" suggests a loss of meaning or communication, further emphasizing the protagonist's sense of isolation.