The meaning and story of John Cale's song "Please" can be interpreted in a few different ways. In the song, the lyrics convey a sense of the narrator's plea for help and their feelings of growing old and isolated. The phrase "Won't you help me please, I'm growing old" suggests a cry for assistance, possibly from a loved one or a friend, as the narrator feels the weight of time and mortality. The line "A million years ago" could be a metaphorical expression of feeling distant or disconnected from the past and longing for someone to understand them in the present. The second verse continues the plea for help, with the phrase "Won't you help me sneeze, I've caught a cold" reflecting a desire for relief and support in times of vulnerability. The mention of "Another way to go" could refer to seeking alternative solutions or paths in life. The chorus, "Just hold on tightly, this shows on my breed, they speak so very slow, it gets so hard to follow," could suggest the difficulties the narrator faces in expressing themselves or being understood by others. It may also allude to a sense of being out of sync with society or feeling like an outsider. The following lines, "Slowly in the mist of captive eyes, to carry you from home, Hansom cab again from dawn till dusk, my power amphibious bride," evoke a mix of imagery that can be interpreted in various ways. They could represent a dreamlike state or a metaphorical journey through different experiences or relationships. The bridge of the song introduces a glimmer of hope or a change in perspective. The lyrics "I'll just leave you here like this, I'm sure you won't be missed, before this night is done, these words won't seem so wrong" suggest a newfound courage or acceptance of the situation. It implies that the narrator is willing to take a risk and leave someone behind, confident that their absence will not be noticed or mourned. The closing lines of the song, "Oh, it can't be that bad, back up in Trinidad, come down and see me soon when you get back from the moon," introduce a sense of longing for connection, possibly addressing an absent lover or friend. The reference to Trinidad and the moon adds a touch of whimsy, as if hoping for a reunion in a different place or a different time. Overall, "Please" by John Cale conveys a mix of vulnerability, loneliness, and a desire for understanding. The song's lyrics paint a complex emotional landscape, open to interpretation, showcasing the human longing for companionship and a yearning to be seen and heard.
