Lyrics: Man In The Middle
Did you see that man in the limousine With the pretty doll, he is fifty and the girl's only seventeen But she doesn't care, and she never will If he's ninety-five she don't give a damn Just as long as he pays the bill Did you see that man with a fat cigar He just left his lovers with a belly full of lobster and caviar He can choose the wine from a vintage year He will drink champagne in his limousine Where the rest of the street can peer 'Cause he's the man in the middle, never second fiddle Just like a spider in a cobweb Hard as a hammer, not the kind of boss you double-cross 'Cause he's the man in the middle, knows the way to diddle He's never bothered by his conscience Deals with the Devil, 'cause he wants to be Man in the middle, the middle, the middle In the middle (in the middle, in the middle...) But you see that man made a big mistake Even though he's got all his servants and a mansion beside a lake And the money too, all that he can spend He can buy the most, nearly anything But he can't buy the lot, his friend 'Cause he's the man in the middle, never second fiddle Just like a spider in a cobweb Hard as a hammer, not the kind of boss you double-cross 'Cause he's the man in the middle, knows the way to diddle He's never bothered by his conscience Deals with the Devil, 'cause he wants to be Man in the middle, the middle, the middle In the middle (in the middle, in the middle...)
Analysis and Interpretation of “Man In The Middle”
Portrait of Power and Excess
“Man In The Middle” paints a vivid picture of a man surrounded by luxury, influence, and questionable morals. The opening verses introduce us to a figure whose wealth enables him to command attention and indulge in extravagance. With references to limousines, caviar, vintage wine, and champagne, the song highlights his opulent lifestyle and the superficial relationships that come with it. The man’s companions are drawn not by genuine affection, but by the allure of his spending power, underscoring the transactional nature of his world.
The Spider in the Web
The chorus compares the central figure to a “spider in a cobweb,” emphasizing his control over his environment and the people within it. He is “never second fiddle,” always orchestrating events to his advantage. The lyrics suggest he is ruthless—”hard as a hammer”—and not someone to cross. This metaphor conveys both his cunning and isolation, as he navigates a web of deals, manipulation, and moral compromises.
The High Cost of Morality
Despite his power and privilege, the song reveals a deeper emptiness. He “deals with the Devil” and is “never bothered by his conscience,” indicating a willingness to sacrifice integrity for success. However, the narrative takes a turn in the final verse, exposing the man’s fundamental mistake: even with immense wealth and status, he cannot purchase true friendship or loyalty. The line, “he can’t buy the lot, his friend,” serves as a poignant reminder that some things remain beyond the reach of money.
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