Who Can It Be Now?

by Men At Work

What is “Who Can It Be Now?” really about?

If you’ve ever wondered what “Who Can It Be Now?” by Men At Work is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.

Who Can It Be Now?' by Men At Work captures the anxious thoughts of someone feeling paranoid and unsettled about uninvited interruptions and potential threats to their privacy.

So… what’s this song really about?

The song 'Who Can It Be Now?' delves into the psyche of an individual grappling with the fear of unforeseen, possibly intrusive visitors. The repetitive inquiry, 'Who can it be now?' reflects a heightened state of anxiety and paranoia, hinting at a broader narrative of vulnerability and the desire to maintain personal peace against external disturbances. The lyrics suggest a scene where the protagonist is constantly wary of the outside world’s intentions, struggling between reality and his fearful perceptions. The mentions of 'the man' coming to take him away amplify this sense of dread, portraying a scenario where personal space and freedom are under threat. This resonates with listeners who experience or can empathize with the distress of feeling monitored or pursued, whether by actual or imagined forces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What year was 'Who Can It Be Now?' by Men At Work released?
The song was released in 1981.

Q: Who wrote 'Who Can It Be Now?'
The song was written by Colin Hay, lead vocalist and guitarist of Men At Work.

Lyrics to “Who Can It Be Now?”

47 Contributors
[Chorus]
Who can it be now?
Who can it be now?
Who can it be now?
Who can it be now?
[Post-Chorus]
Is it the man come to take me away?
Why do they follow me?
It's not the future that I can see
It's just my fantasy
Yeah
[Saxophone Solo]
[Chorus]
Oh-oh-oh
Who can it be now?
Who can it be now?
Who can it be now?
Who can it be now?
[Outro]
Oh, who can it be now?
Oh-wee, oh
Who can it? Who can it?
Oh
Who can it be now?
Oh-wee, oh, yeah, yeah, yeah