Meaning of By My Side by INXS

INXS's song 'By My Side' is a haunting and introspective piece that delves into the depths of longing and the desire for connection. The overall theme of the song revolves around a sense of yearning for someone who is physically absent but ever-present in the protagonist's thoughts. The lyrics reflect feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, and a deep longing for companionship in the darkest hours of the night.One standout lyric in the song is "Rooms full of strangers, Some call me friend, But I wish you were so close to me." This lyric explores the concept of being surrounded by people, yet feeling completely alone without the presence of that special someone. It touches upon the idea that true connection goes beyond mere friendships or acquaintanceship. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the longing for an authentic connection that transcends surface-level relationships.Another powerful lyric is "Here comes the clown, His face is a wall, No window, No air at all." This particular line paints a vivid picture of loneliness and entrapment. The reference to the clown symbolizes the masks people wear to conceal their emotions. The theme of this lyric revolves around the sense of suffocation and isolation that can stem from superficial interactions and the longing for genuine emotional connection.The line "Those faces they haunt me" encapsulates a haunting atmosphere that throughout the song. It reflects a sense of deep regret, possibly hinting at missed opportunities or lost love. The theme that arises from this lyric is the lasting impact of lost connections and the haunting memories that come with them.Throughout the song, there is a recurring motif of darkness and nighttime, symbolizing emotional vulnerability and introspection. The dark of night becomes a metaphorical space where the protagonist's thoughts and emotions come to the forefront, highlighting the inner turmoil caused by the absence of a loved one. The themes of longing, desire, and yearning are deeply intertwined with this motif, emphasizing the depth of the protagonist's emotions.Taking a creative and imaginative interpretation, 'By My Side' can also be seen as an exploration of the uncertainty of life itself. The concept of the dark night represents the unknown and the uncertainties that we all face. The lyrics serve as a reminder of the constant desire for stability and companionship in the face of these uncertainties. Themes of seeking comfort and security emerge from this interpretation, urging listeners to appreciate the beauty and significance of genuine connections in a constantly changing world.While 'By My Side' may be interpreted in various ways, the central theme of the song revolves around the human longing for connection, companionship, and authenticity. The standout lyrics mentioned above contribute to the development of this theme, exploring concepts of loneliness, regret, emotional masks, and the impact of lost connections. Additionally, an imaginative interpretation allows us to see the song as a reflection on the uncertainties of life and the desire for stability. Ultimately, 'By My Side' speaks to the universal human experience of yearning for a sense of belonging and the search for companionship in the darkest hours of the night.