Substitute

The Who's song 'Substitute' delves into the complexities of identity and the facades people often present to the world. The lyrics reveal a protagonist who feels like a stand-in or replacement, never truly being seen for who he is. The opening lines, 'You think we look pretty good together / You think my shoes are made of leather,' set the stage for a narrative about appearances versus reality. The protagonist acknowledges that while he may seem like a suitable partner, he is merely a 'substitute for another guy,' highlighting a sense of inadequacy and the superficial judgments people make based on appearances.

The song is rich with metaphors that underscore the theme of deception and hidden truths. Lines like 'I look all white, but my dad was black / My fine looking suit is really made out of sack' challenge societal norms and expectations, revealing the protagonist's struggle with his own identity and the false perceptions others have of him. The mention of being 'born with a plastic spoon in my mouth' contrasts sharply with the more common 'silver spoon,' suggesting a life of pretense and artificiality rather than privilege.

The recurring theme of substitution extends beyond personal identity to broader social commentary. The protagonist's lament, 'Substitute your lies for fact / I see right through your plastic mac,' criticizes the superficiality and dishonesty prevalent in society. The song's chorus, with its repeated substitutions—'Substitute me for him / Substitute my coke for gin'—emphasizes the interchangeable nature of people and things in a world that values appearances over substance. Ultimately, 'Substitute' is a poignant exploration of the masks people wear and the often painful reality of being misunderstood or overlooked.