Scatman's World

Scatman John's 'Scatman's World' is a vibrant and thought-provoking song that invites listeners to escape the constraints of societal norms and embrace a more authentic and unified existence. The song's repetitive chorus, 'I'm calling out from Scatland, I'm calling out from Scatman's World,' serves as a beckoning to a utopian realm where individuals can break free from societal pressures and see the world through the lens of their own fantasies. This fantasy world is not just an escape but a place where one can find true freedom and self-expression.

The lyrics delve into the human tendency to hide true feelings and conform to societal expectations. Lines like 'Everybody's talkin' something very shockin' just to keep on blockin' what they're feelin' inside' highlight the superficiality and emotional suppression prevalent in society. Scatman John urges listeners to 'keep on walkin'' and not be bogged down by these societal pressures, emphasizing that everyone, regardless of race or background, has nothing to hide. This message of unity and acceptance is further reinforced with the line, 'Scatman, fat man, black and white and brown man, tell me 'bout the color of your soul,' which calls for a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other's inner selves rather than external appearances.

The song also critiques the competitive nature of society, questioning the true value of winning when it comes at the expense of others. 'Everybody's born to compete as he chooses, but how can someone win if winning means that someone loses,' reflects on the zero-sum game mentality that often dominates human interactions. Scatman John advocates for a shift from being 'human doings' to 'human beings,' emphasizing the importance of authenticity and genuine human connection. His intention is not to prevent crime but to prevent the 'lie'—the falsehoods and pretenses that people often live by. 'Scatman's World' is thus a call to action for a more honest, empathetic, and inclusive world.