You hit the street, you feel them staring
You know they hate you you can feel their eyes a glarin’
Because you’re different, because you’re free
Because you’re everything deep down they wish they could be
[Chorus:]
You’re lookin back (lookin back) they’re lookin back (lookin back)
Too many people lookin back
You’re lookin back (lookin back) they’re lookin back (lookin back)
Too many people lookin back
They watch the news, see young men dying
They watch them bleedin’ and listen to them lyin’
And if they’re normal if they can see
They just reach out and change the channel on the TV
[Chorus]
When they could vote, and end the war
They’re much too busy fittin’ locks upon the back door
Give you a foxhole, a place to hide
Cause when the war come the cops’ll be on their side
[Chorus]
Reflecting on Social Conformity and Apathy
Bob Seger’s “Lookin’ Back” is a powerful commentary on society’s tendency to judge and ostracize those who dare to be different. The song opens with vivid imagery of someone feeling the glare of judgmental eyes, highlighting how individuality is often met with resentment. Seger draws a stark line between freedom and conformity, suggesting that many harbor envy for those who live authentically.
Confronting Indifference and Inaction
The lyrics sharply critique the public’s passive response to real-world suffering, as people choose to “change the channel” rather than engage with difficult truths. Seger calls out this apathy, pointing to how distraction and self-preservation often take precedence over meaningful action, such as voting to end war or challenging the status quo.
Song Credits
Songwriter: Bob Seger
Release Year: 1971
Label: Capitol Records