The song "Can't Think Straight" by Gilbert O'Sullivan is about a person named Mary who the protagonist is in love with. The song starts with the protagonist asking if Mary is there, but she is not. The protagonist requests the listener to inform Mary that they called, express their love for her, and apologize. The protagonist explains that they had a quarrel with Mary and became angry, resulting in them slapping her. However, they deeply regret their actions and are sorry for what happened because they love her immensely. Then, a woman named Silvia intervenes and offers her help. Silvia says that if the protagonist could look at her instead of Mary, she would shower them with oceans of love and make their life better. However, the protagonist admits they cannot think straight because they love Mary so much. The song shifts its focus to the broader perspective of life and the struggles faced by others. The protagonist questions themselves about the plight of people who have nothing to eat and reflects on the unfairness of life. They feel pathetic for only being concerned about their own situation. The protagonist continues to express their love and longing for Mary. They wonder why Mary is not answering the phone and suspect she is not at home. The protagonist feels helpless and doesn't know what to say or do in this situation. Silvia reassures the protagonist that Mary will also feel regret and apologize eventually. However, the protagonist questions why Mary won't pick up the phone if that's the case. They apologize again for their actions and the mixed emotions they are experiencing. The song takes a contemplative turn as the protagonist ponders about life's complexities and questions what humanity is doing. They find it crazy that they can look fine on the surface, despite knowing that they could become extinct just like dinosaurs in a short amount of time. Adding to their troubles, the protagonist learns that their rent is going to be raised. They ask the listener to inform Mary of their call, confess their love, and apologize once again. They thank the listener for their kindness and acknowledge that they may have taken up too much of their time. The song ends with the protagonist expressing their love for Mary and their inability to think clearly due to the intensity of their emotions.
