The Hidden Message in “Sunglasses at Night” by Corey Hart
Introduction
In the 1980s, one song captured the imagination of music lovers all over the world. “Sunglasses at Night” by Corey Hart was an instant hit and remains an iconic anthem of the decade. But beyond its catchy tune and unforgettable chorus, the song has a deeper meaning that continues to resonate with fans today. In this article, we’ll dive into the lyrics and explore the hidden message behind “Sunglasses at Night.”
The Lyrics
The opening lines of “Sunglasses at Night” set the tone for the rest of the song:
I wear my sunglasses at night
So I can, so I can
Watch you weave then breathe your storylines
And I wear my sunglasses at night
The repeated phrase “so I can” suggests that the sunglasses serve a purpose beyond fashion or protection from the sun. The next two lines seem to suggest that the singer is observing someone closely, perhaps even surreptitiously.
The chorus goes on to say:
Don’t switch the blade on the guy in shades, oh no
Don’t masquerade with the guy in shades, oh no
I can’t believe it
‘Cause you’ve got it made with the guy in shades, oh no
Here, the message becomes more ambiguous. The phrase “don’t switch the blade” could be taken as a warning not to underestimate the person in the sunglasses, or perhaps a plea not to harm them. “Don’t masquerade” could be interpreted as a caution against trying to hide one’s true self from the person in question. And the final line can be seen as either positive or negative, depending on how you interpret “you’ve got it made.”
The Meaning
So, what is the hidden message in “Sunglasses at Night”? There are many possible interpretations, but here are a few:
– The sunglasses represent a shield of sorts, allowing the wearer to observe the world without being observed themselves. This could be seen as a form of protection or as a way of maintaining distance from others.
– The sunglasses might also represent a persona or alter ego that the singer assumes in order to deal with the challenges of fame or personal relationships.
– Some have suggested that “Sunglasses at Night” is a critique of consumer culture and the way that image and status are valued above substance. In this view, the person in the sunglasses has “made it” because of their appearance, not their character or actions.
– Another interpretation is that the song is about the way that we all wear masks or put up walls to protect ourselves from emotional pain. The person in the sunglasses might be seen as someone who has built up defenses against the world, but who is still trying to connect with others in their own way.
The Legacy
Regardless of which interpretation you prefer, it’s clear that “Sunglasses at Night” has had a lasting impact on music and popular culture. The song was a massive hit when it was first released in 1984 and continues to be played on radio stations around the world. It’s been covered by other artists, referenced in TV shows and movies, and used in advertising campaigns. And Corey Hart himself has continued to perform and record music, becoming a Canadian icon in the process.
But even beyond its commercial success, “Sunglasses at Night” has a deeper resonance. It captures a mood and a feeling that many people can relate to, even decades after its initial release. It’s a reminder that there are hidden depths to all of us, and that the things we choose to wear or how we present ourselves can reveal as much as they conceal.
The Conclusion
In the end, “Sunglasses at Night” is a song that continues to fascinate and intrigue listeners. Its lyrics are open to interpretation, but they tap into universal themes of identity, observation, and protection. And the fact that it has endured for so long is a testament to its power and appeal. Whether you’re a diehard fan or just hearing it for the first time, “Sunglasses at Night” is a song that will stay with you long after the final chord has played.
