"Fear Is A Man's Best Friend" by John Cale is a song that delves into themes of fear, loneliness, and the destructive nature of human emotions. The lyrics seem to depict a sense of anticipation and desperation, as the protagonist stands and waits for someone, possibly a lover or companion, to arrive. The line "This waiting's killing me, it's wearing me down" suggests that the waiting has become a burden and is taking a toll on the protagonist's emotional well-being. They feel trapped, with their feet "burning holes in the ground," implying that they may have been waiting for a long time. The darkness being described as "warmer than a bedroom floor" could symbolize the comfort found in one's own isolation and fears. The desire for someone to hold them "close forever more" implies a craving for intimacy and connection, contrasting with the lonely and desolate feeling portrayed earlier. The protagonist compares themselves to a "sleeping dog" who seems harmless at first, but becomes dangerous when on the prowl. This could signify their unpredictable nature and the potential for destructive actions driven by fear and desperation. The line "when I'm on the prowl you'd better run like hell" warns others to stay away when the protagonist is in this state. The chorus suggests that fear is a constant companion in life, and the repetition of the phrase "you know it makes sense, don't even think about it" implies a resigned acceptance of this fact. The protagonist acknowledges that life and death are merely actions taken out of boredom or as a response to fear. The second verse reflects a sense of displacement and aimlessness, describing a home that feels like living as a fugitive. The trails leading nowhere and the question of where to guide the son hint at a sense of hopelessness and uncertainty about the future. The line "We're already dead, just not yet in the ground" suggests a feeling of being emotionally deadened or disconnected from life. The final lines of the song offer a helping hand to someone else, perhaps someone who is also trapped in their fears and loneliness. The implication is that the protagonist understands the destructive nature of fear and is willing to show others the consequences of such emotions. Overall, "Fear Is A Man's Best Friend" explores the themes of fear, loneliness, and the destructive cycle they can create in one's life. John Cale's lyrics paint a portrait of a protagonist trapped in their own emotions, seeking connection but plagued by the damaging effects of fear.
