Who Are You

The Who's 'Who Are You' is a song that delves into the theme of identity and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of a chaotic and disorienting experience. The lyrics describe a scenario where the protagonist wakes up in a Soho doorway, disoriented and known by a policeman, suggesting a life that has perhaps gone off the rails. The repeated question 'Who are you?' serves as a refrain throughout the song, emphasizing the search for self amidst the confusion and the haze of life's struggles.

The verses of the song paint a picture of a person who has been through a rough night, possibly involving a fight ('throwin' punches around') and a sense of disillusionment ('felt a little like a dying clown'). The references to 'the Rollin' Pin' and 'the Tin Pan' suggest a connection to the music industry and the grind of the protagonist's daily life. The song's narrative conveys a sense of weariness and a yearning for a different path or a deeper understanding of oneself.

The latter part of the song introduces a contrast between the sordidness of the protagonist's current state ('I spit out like a sewer hole') and the remnants of a past filled with love ('love falls from the trees'). This juxtaposition highlights the protagonist's internal conflict and the struggle to reconcile their present with their past. The Who, known for their rock anthems and thought-provoking lyrics, encapsulate the human condition's complexities in this track, leaving listeners to ponder their own identities and life choices.