"Barking Up The Wrong Tree (Such Is Life)" by Gilbert O'Sullivan is a song that tackles various topics and expresses O'Sullivan's thoughts and perspectives on them. The lyrics begin by expressing admiration for someone's physical attributes - their big blue eyes and laughter lines. O'Sullivan appreciates imperfections and sees them as something that shines for him. He then states that he has no inhibitions and questions the purpose of inhibiting oneself, especially when it comes to pursuing his artistic passion, symbolized by a painting he's never done. The song continues by referencing Ned, possibly a reference to the Australian bushranger Ned Kelly. O'Sullivan mentions that life is unpredictable and wants to clarify that if someone thinks that putting him in a difficult situation, symbolized by a noose around his neck, will make him happy, they are mistaken. O'Sullivan then shares his dislike for cold damp mornings, despite having had a good night's sleep. The feeling of stepping out into darkness makes him want to retreat. He also criticizes glamorous model types who appear barely dressed, comparing them to a naked chef with a powder puff, questioning the purpose of their fashion choices. The song takes a shift and addresses a more serious global issue - the killing of elephants for their tusks. O'Sullivan expresses his disagreement with those who claim it is not unjust to kill elephants for this purpose. He suggests that those who hold such beliefs should experience the power of a herd of elephants overruling them. He finds it absurd that armed marksmen perceive a man with a table leg as a threat and wonders why they wouldn't simply shoot him in the head if they truly feel endangered. O'Sullivan concludes by reiterating the phrase "such is life," acknowledging the unpredictable nature of it. He challenges those who think he is mentally unstable to take a piece of advice from him, indicating that they too are barking up the wrong tree. Overall, "Barking Up The Wrong Tree (Such Is Life)" by Gilbert O'Sullivan reflects his diverse thoughts on various aspects of life, criticizing societal norms, expressing his opinions on unjust practices, and ultimately asserting his own individuality.
