It's A Feeling
Toto
The Alienation and Inner Struggle in Toto's 'It's A Feeling'
Toto's song 'It's A Feeling' delves into the complex emotions of alienation and inner conflict. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who feels out of place, as if they are an outsider looking in. The line 'But a man's on the outside looking in, wondering who's in his old armchair' suggests a sense of displacement and loss, as if the protagonist no longer recognizes their own life or surroundings. This imagery evokes a feeling of nostalgia and longing for a time when things felt more familiar and secure.
The song also explores the theme of unreciprocated belonging. The line 'It's a feeling, you never belonged to me' indicates a one-sided relationship where the protagonist feels a deep connection that is not returned. This unbalanced dynamic is further emphasized by the contrast between 'First you're on the up 'n up, I only look down and see.' Here, the protagonist feels left behind or overlooked, adding to their sense of isolation and disconnection.
Additionally, the lyrics touch on the struggle to confront hidden truths. The lines 'No lock or key can hide the truth, you're keeping from me' suggest that there are underlying issues or secrets that are being concealed. This creates a tension between the desire to uncover the truth and the fear of what it might reveal. The song captures the essence of feeling trapped in a situation where one is constantly battling internal and external forces, unable to find a sense of belonging or peace.