The song "Mad Dog" by Johnny Clegg tells the story of a man who feels like he is being treated like a mad dog by the woman he loves. He feels like she loves the wild, unpredictable and aggressive side of him, just like a mad dog. He feels used and manipulated by her, as she enjoys provoking and controlling him. The man feels like he is being kept chained up inside his own heart, unable to break free from the toxic relationship. The chorus "Down! Down! Down! Mad dog! Down!" reflects his struggle to regain control and put an end to the emotional turmoil he is experiencing. The lyrics also hint at the woman's fascination with the drama and chaos she creates in the man's life, as she enjoys seeing him struggle and suffer. The metaphor of the "mad dog" represents the inner turmoil and anger the man feels, as well as the woman's psychological control over him. Overall, the song "Mad Dog" captures the intense and damaging dynamics of a toxic relationship, where one person feels trapped and manipulated by the other. It highlights the struggle to break free from emotional bondage and find true freedom and peace of mind.
