"Secret Agent Man" is actually a cover of a song originally written by P.F. Sloan and Steve Barri, and performed by Johnny Rivers. Joe Strummer, the lead vocalist of The Clash, recorded his own version of the song. The lyrics describe a mysterious and dangerous man who lives a life of secrecy and uncertainty. The protagonist is constantly on the move, taking risks and facing dangerous situations. The phrase "Secret agent man" refers to someone who works as a spy or undercover agent for a government agency. The song portrays the constant paranoia and fear that comes with being a secret agent. The protagonist is warned to be wary of attractive faces, as they can hide evil intentions. They must be careful with their words to avoid giving themselves away. The odds of survival are not in their favor, with the repeated line "Odds are you won't live to see tomorrow." The lyrics also suggest that the life of a secret agent is not glamorous or stable. The protagonist is seen swinging on the Riviera one day and lying in a Bombay alley the next, highlighting the unpredictable and dangerous nature of their mission. Overall, "Secret Agent Man" portrays the life of a spy as a thrilling but ultimately precarious existence, where anonymity and constant vigilance are necessary for survival.
