Byrne uses a mix of spoken-word tension and manic high notes, famously shouting "Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa!" to mimic a stuttering, nervous energy.

The song explores the internal monologue of a character experiencing a breakdown or losing touch with reality. It is famous for its bridge, which features lyrics in —"Ce que j'ai fait, ce soir-là / Ce qu'elle a dit, ce soir-là"—adding to the song's artful and slightly alienated atmosphere. Contrary to popular belief at the time, it was not written about the "Son of Sam" serial killer; the band had actually written the track years before those events. Musical Style

The song opens with a signature three-note bass riff that provides the rhythmic backbone for the entire track.