Family Of Man

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of a mysterious, imposing figure, described as a "big, tall man in a big black hat." This individual is presented with a stark contradiction: a "wolf in sheep's clothing" who somehow maintains an outwardly acceptable appearance. The narrator repeatedly urges listeners to "get in touch if you can," creating an immediate sense of intrigue and perhaps a warning about this enigmatic man. The central tension arises from the juxtaposition of the man's deceptive nature and the narrator's own self-assured declaration, "You are what you are, I am what I am." This refrain suggests a fundamental difference in authenticity or perhaps a defiant stance against societal expectations. The narrator's extensive travels, emphasized by the repeated phrase "I've been all around the world," seem to bolster this sense of self-knowledge and independence, positioning them as someone who has seen enough to understand true nature. The most striking craft element is the stark contrast between the man's hidden danger and his outward presentation. The phrase "wolf in sheep's clothing" is a classic idiom, but its placement here, directly following the description of his imposing physical presence, amplifies the unease. The repetitive structure, particularly the insistent "I've been all around the world," hammers home the narrator's perspective, almost as if to prove their wisdom or right to judge. These lyrics resonate because they tap into a primal suspicion of hidden motives and a desire for self-definition. The narrator's insistence on their own identity, contrasted with the veiled threat of the man in the black hat, creates a compelling narrative arc. The final line, "Every day, a star," offers a glimpse into the narrator's ultimate self-perception, a confident assertion of brilliance that stands apart from the ambiguous figure they introduce.