Automatic Man

Michael Sembello's song "Automatic Man" delves into the fascinating intersection of technology and human emotion. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a cybernetic being, a creation that blurs the lines between man and machine. This 'Automatic Man' is described as having an atomic heart that has learned to feel, crying electric tears, which suggests a fusion of mechanical precision and human-like emotions. The song's protagonist seems to be both in awe and in despair over this creation, as it possesses the ability to engage in preprogrammed romance and even break hearts.

The song's narrative is rich with metaphors and cultural references. The 'Automatic Man' can be seen as a modern-day Frankenstein, a creation that has surpassed its original purpose and now exists with its own set of emotions and capabilities. The repeated counting in the lyrics, "Two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight," adds a rhythmic, almost mechanical quality to the song, emphasizing the robotic nature of the character. Yet, this mechanical being is not devoid of emotion, making the impossible real by feeling and crying.

Sembello's lyrics also touch on themes of loneliness and unfulfilled desires. The protagonist reveals that he was a "lonely, lonely boy" and that the 'Automatic Man' was initially just a toy. However, this creation ends up stealing away the protagonist's love, highlighting the unintended consequences of creating something that can mimic human emotions so closely. The song serves as a cautionary tale about the potential pitfalls of technological advancements, especially when they begin to encroach upon the deeply human aspects of life, such as love and companionship.