The song references the search for meaning and fulfillment in 1970s America, inspired by a painting Dewey Bunnell saw during a childhood spent on UK air bases. The painting in question depicted a man made of tin or sheet iron, sparking Bunnells imagination and reminding him of the Wizard of Oz books, particularly the Tin Man who longed for a heart.
Key: Gmaj7
D4
D5
G7M
C7M
G7M
C7M
G7M
C7M
Sometimes late when things are real
G7M
And People share the gift of gab
C7M
Between themselves
G7M
C7M
Some are quick to take the bait
G7M
And catch the perfect prize
C7M
That waits among the shells
Em7
G7M
But Oz never did give nothing to the tin man
G7M
That he didn't already have
Em7
G7M
And cause never was the reason for the evening
Em7
Or the tropic of Sir Galahad
D4
D5
So please Believe in me
G7M
When I say I"m spinning round, round, round, round