The mirror’s image
Tells me it’s home time
But I’m not finished
‘Cause you’re not by my side
And as I arrived I thought I saw you leaving
Carrying your shoes
Decided that once again I was just dreaming
Of bumping into you
Now it’s three in the morning and I’m trying to change your mind
Left you multiple missed calls and to my message you reply
“Why’d you only call me when you’re high?
Hi, why’d you only call me when you’re high?”
Somewhere darker
Talking the same shite
I need a partner (hey)
Well, are you out tonight?
It’s harder and harder to get you to listen
More I get through the gears
Incapable of making alright decisions
And having bad ideas
Now it’s three in the morning and I’m trying to change your mind
Left you multiple missed calls and to my message you reply (message you reply)
“Why’d you only call me when you’re high? (why’d you only call me when you’re high?)
Hi, why’d you only call me when you’re high?”
And I can’t see you here wonder where I might?
Sort of feels like I’m running out of time
I haven’t found what I was hoping to find
You said, “You gotta be up in the morning, gonna have an early night
And you’re starting to bore me, baby
Why’d you only call me when you’re high?”
Why’d you only ever phone me when you’re high?
Why’d you only ever phone me when you’re high?
Why’d you only ever phone me when you’re high?
Why’d you only ever phone me when you’re high?
Late-Night Longing and Modern Communication
“Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?” by Arctic Monkeys navigates the blurry world of late-night desires and unfiltered honesty. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist’s restless night, marked by missed connections and unanswered messages. There’s an underlying frustration as he tries to reach out to someone who seems increasingly distant. The recurring question in the chorus, laced with self-awareness, exposes the cycle of seeking affection only when inhibitions are lowered, raising questions about genuine intent versus fleeting need.
Urban Isolation and Emotional Distance
The song masterfully captures the feeling of urban isolation, where proximity doesn’t guarantee closeness. The protagonist’s repeated attempts to connect highlight both vulnerability and the pitfalls of digital-age relationships. The lyrics suggest a struggle to make meaningful connections, with substance use blurring judgment and amplifying loneliness. The storytelling is relatable, echoing the experiences of many navigating love and uncertainty in the modern world.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Alex Turner
Release Year: 2013
Label: Domino Recording Company