[3] The song is similar to a folkish strophic form and uses a Dylanesque acoustic guitar figure in compound duple time, normally committed to score in 68 or 128 time, with chiefly acoustic accompaniment, no backing voices and light percussion from brushed snare, tambourine and maraca.

He could also have been writing about his inability to express his true 'loving' self in public and his feelings of isolation and paranoia related to fame.

[4] Some, such as singer Tom Robinson, have suggested that the song was written for the Beatles' manager Brian Epstein, who had to hide his homosexuality from the public.

Pete Shotton, Lennon's former bandmate from The Quarrymen, was present when the song was being composed, and suggested adding "Hey" to the start of the line in the refrain.

[4] The basic rhythm track was recorded first, followed by George Harrison's overdubbed 12-string guitar and some extra percussion.

The flute part of the song is performed by George's in-house gardener (Bruce Lacey).