The band gained recognition in the United Kingdom and United States during 2006 and 2007 due to the success of their single "Young Folks", whilst staying virtually unknown in their homeland, Sweden.
People They Know
Peter Bjorn and John Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
So they phone you and ask you to go out, people they know
People they know when you're in a bar and you don't have
The slighest clue where you are, people they know
People they know when you're been out, drinking and you're
Not in bed until five, so they phone you and ask you to come around
People they know but what are they thinking?
What are they really thinking?
People they know when you've been walking around, wishing
And to come across, the one you wanted to come across
People they know when you're at home and you're dialing that
Number again just to hang up the phone once again
People they know but what are they thinking?
People they know but what are they thinking?
What are they really thinking?
The song "People They Know" by Peter Bjorn and John is a reflection on the dynamics of relationships and social networks. The lyrics describe how friends and acquaintances are always aware of our actions and behaviors, even when we are unaware of their presence. They observe us in times of triumph and failure, and often offer unsolicited advice or commentary in response. The song suggests that these interactions can be both comforting and suffocating, as we are constantly under scrutiny from those around us.
The repeated refrain of "people they know but what are they thinking?" further underscores the ambiguous and often unsettling nature of these social dynamics. Despite the fact that others are always watching, we can never fully know what they are thinking or why they are behaving the way they are. This creates a sense of unease and insecurity, as we realize that our actions are always subject to interpretation and judgement.
Overall, "People They Know" is a poignant and introspective commentary on the complex nature of human relationships. The song reminds us that our actions have ripple effects that are felt far beyond our immediate social circles, and that we are constantly being watched and judged by those around us.
Line by Line Meaning
People they know when you're not getting it right
Other people who are acquaintances will notice when you're not doing well or acting in a way that isn't typical for you.
So they phone you and ask you to go out, people they know
Those acquaintances will then reach out to you and suggest spending time together to try and help you feel better.
People they know when you're in a bar and you don't have
These acquaintances will also notice when you're out in public and seem lost or unsure of where you are or what to do next.
The slighest clue where you are, people they know
They know you well enough to know when you're struggling or unsure, and may reach out to you for support or guidance.
People they know when you've been out, drinking and you're
These people are also likely to notice when you've been out drinking and may check in on you to make sure you're okay or offer to stay with you if you need help.
Not in bed until five, so they phone you and ask you to come around
They may reach out to invite you to spend time together or come over to talk about what's going on and offer their support.
People they know but what are they thinking?
Despite their attempts to help, you may still wonder what these acquaintances are actually thinking or feeling about you and your situation.
People they know when you've been walking around, wishing
These people may also notice when you're feeling down or struggling with something and looking for some kind of help or respite.
And to come across, the one you wanted to come across
They may be aware of who you're hoping to see or connect with, and may try to help you in that search or offer their own insights or advice.
People they know when you're at home and you're dialing that
Even when you're alone and struggling, these acquaintances may still be aware of your situation and reach out to offer support or check in on you.
Number again just to hang up the phone once again
You may feel helpless or lost when attempting to reach out to others, and may find it difficult to express your thoughts or feelings to those who want to help.
What are they really thinking?
Despite their attempts to help or offer support, you may still feel uncertain about what these acquaintances are thinking or feeling about you and your situation.
Contributed by Brayden B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Noe Hernandez Zuñiga
Rifadaaaaaaa
Vanilla A Capella
Stupidly good.
Дабá Очиров
good