Song meaning of Buildings Have Eyes by Electric Light Orchestra

"Buildings Have Eyes" by Electric Light Orchestra is a haunting and introspective song that delves into the feeling of being constantly observed and trapped within the confines of a city. The lyrics paint a picture of a lonely and eerie urban landscape where the buildings themselves seem to have a watchful presence, symbolizing the feeling of being under constant surveillance and unable to escape.

The opening verse sets the tone with lines like "The windows watch you as you walk along" and "The streets lead back to where you started from," creating a sense of entrapment and repetition. The chorus reinforces this theme, emphasizing that no matter where you hide or what you say, you can't escape the watchful gaze of the city's buildings. This reflects a feeling of paranoia and isolation, as if there is no way to truly break free from the city's grasp.

The song also touches on themes of regret and the relentless pursuit of money and success. Lines like "Money, money, gotta get some money and run" and "A position I find unenviable" suggest a sense of desperation and unease in the pursuit of material wealth. The repetition of "Funny, funny how the world goes 'round and 'round" in the final verse highlights the cyclical nature of life and the feeling of being stuck in a never-ending loop.

Overall, "Buildings Have Eyes" is a thought-provoking exploration of urban alienation, surveillance, and the struggle to break free from the constraints of society. The haunting melody and introspective lyrics create a sense of unease and introspection, inviting listeners to reflect on their own feelings of confinement and observation in a modern world.