"Leaving It Up to You" is a song by John Cale from his album "Fear" released in 1974. The song explores themes of loneliness, disillusionment, and the need for companionship. The lyrics depict a search for friendship, as the narrator looks for a friend everywhere but finds only superficial acquaintances. These friends are described as careless and constantly falling down, implying their unreliability. The narrator expresses their frustrations, not wanting to engage with these people. The song then takes a turn towards personal and political rebellion. The crumbling buildings and whispering in the heart symbolize a deteriorating society and inner turmoil. The narrator expresses a desire to dismantle the existing order and confront the oppressive forces, remarking, "And if you give me half a chance, I'd do it now, right now, you fascist." The reference to Sharon Tate, a victim of the infamous Manson Family murders, suggests a desire to escape from the troubles of the world and find safety. The narrator suggests giving it all up, possibly referring to societal constraints, and embracing a radical change. The song also criticizes media outlets. The newspapers are depicted as listening to the narrator's subversive thoughts, while the radios are portrayed as listening to the narrator's message. This implies a desire to spread their ideas and challenge the existing power structures. Towards the end, the lyrics shift to a more introspective perspective. The narrator hears hissing in the distance, symbolizing the approaching danger. Tanks crawling over the hill represent threats or challenges. The narrator acknowledges the spell they had created, but it is being broken by external forces. In conclusion, "Leaving It Up to You" by John Cale is a complex and introspective song that explores themes of loneliness, disillusionment, rebellion, and the desire for change. The lyrics convey a longing for genuine connection and a rejection of societal norms, while also acknowledging the challenges and dangers that come with such defiance.
