The song "Mean Old Man" by Joan Armatrading talks about the experience of dealing with someone who deceives and manipulates others. The lyrics depict the narrator's realization and frustration with this person's actions. The opening lines convey the narrator's plea for help, as they cry out to be saved from the "mean old man" who smiles to their face but still deprives them. The narrator seeks proof of the person's true nature, highlighting their deceitful and unpleasant behavior. The song suggests that in a world that seems partially insane (semi-mad world), it is best not to overthink or dwell on negative situations. The metaphor of rolling in a boat symbolizes the idea of taking risks or pursuing choices that ultimately lead to downfall. The lyrics emphasize the mean old man's ability to put on a facade, showing a smiling face but revealing a lack of sincerity through his eyes that don't blink. This suggests that he is not to be trusted and hides his true intentions. The narrator acknowledges that the Lord above sees through the mean old man's lies and pretenses. The false complexion mentioned in the lyrics refers to the person's deceptive nature, using various excuses to justify their actions. The song implies that the narrator is relieved to have seen through the mean old man's facade and is glad that their friends are also becoming aware of his true nature. The lyrics suggest that the mean old man has tried to make the narrator feel envious or jealous (spell me green), but the narrator realizes that the real emotion they feel is sadness (the color's blue). The final lines mention a debt collector keeping an eye on the mean old man, possibly implying that his deceptive ways will catch up to him eventually. Overall, "Mean Old Man" depicts the frustration and disappointment with someone who manipulates and deceives others, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and being aware of others' true intentions.
