Son of Sam by Elliott Smith is a reflective and melancholic song that delves into themes of loneliness, inner turmoil, and existential questioning. The title refers to the infamous serial killer, but the song uses this reference metaphorically to explore personal struggles and darker aspects of human nature. Key themes include isolation, the struggle with self-identity, and the haunting nature of past traumas. Poignant moments in the song include lines that discuss the feeling of being trapped in one's own mind and the search for meaning in a confusing and often cruel world.