In John Mellencamp's song "Without Expression," the lyrics portray a person who lacks any outward display of emotions or feelings. The song describes this man as someone who remains stoic and emotionless, not showing any signs of happiness or sadness. The lyrics also touch upon the idea of experiencing exhilarating or unusual things in life, such as riding horses through a rainstorm or a lion through a busy street bazaar. These experiences are something the narrator would like to share with the man who lacks expression but feels they are safer remaining where they are. The song suggests that some people are driven by infatuation or depression, while others may lack imagination due to their upbringing. The narrator warns of potential sin lurking at the doorstep, implying that suppressing emotions might have negative consequences. Throughout the song, the narrator reflects on the man's lack of expression, his absence of laughter or tears. However, there is a sense that the man might still have some inner feelings, as he is occasionally heard singing and sighing, though he quickly stops. The song begs the question of why this man remains so emotionless and calls attention to the complexity of human emotions. The repeated lines about riding horses through a rainstorm or a lion through a busy street bazaar evoke a sense of adventure and risk-taking, suggesting that the narrator's desire to turn the man on to new experiences may be an attempt to bring him out of his emotional detachment. Overall, "Without Expression" explores themes of emotional suppression and lack of connection, while also pondering the possibility of revealing hidden emotions and encouraging a more expressive existence.
