Surrogate People
John Frusciante and Josh Klinghoffer Lyrics

The lyrics to "Surrogate People" by John Frusciante and Josh Klinghoffer speak to the idea of feeling replaceable in society. The "surrogate people" referenced in the song are those who walk by, seemingly unaffected by the struggles and hardships faced by others. These people are depicted as taking on the lives of those they replace, living their day-to-day experiences without recognizing the depth of emotion behind them. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the emptiness and lack of individuality in our society, as people become so easily interchangeable.

The repetitive nature of the lyrics emphasizes the cyclical nature of the idea of replaceability - "surrogate people" come and go, taking over the lives of those before them, leaving those replaced feeling as though their existence was perhaps not as meaningful as they once thought. The haunting, almost monotone delivery of the lines adds to the feeling of bleakness and despair in the song. Ultimately, "Surrogate People" speaks to the disconnection and detachment that can exist in society, where people are easily replaced and their unique experiences and emotions perpetually devalued.