Carnival

Bikini Kill's song "Carnival" delves into the darker, often hidden aspects of carnival life, particularly from the perspective of young girls. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the seedy underbelly of the carnival, a place where innocence is often lost and exploitation is rampant. The song opens with a stark depiction of 16-year-old girls engaging in sexual acts with carnival workers in exchange for free rides and drugs. This raw and unfiltered portrayal highlights the vulnerability and desperation of youth, as well as the predatory nature of some adults in these environments.

The repeated refrain, "I wanna go to the carnival," juxtaposes the allure and excitement of the carnival with the harsh reality of its cost, both financially and emotionally. The mention of the $16 entry fee serves as a metaphor for the price of admission into this world, where the true cost is far greater than money. The desire to win a Motley Crue mirror, despite the likelihood of losing money, underscores the theme of chasing superficial rewards and the lengths to which individuals will go to attain them.

The imagery of girls with feathered hair and plastic boots further emphasizes the artificial and performative nature of the carnival. These details paint a picture of a place where appearances are deceiving, and the line between reality and illusion is blurred. The song's setting by the Lacey Mall grounds it in a specific, relatable location, making the narrative all the more impactful. Through "Carnival," Bikini Kill sheds light on the exploitation and disillusionment that often accompany the seemingly innocent fun of carnival life, urging listeners to look beyond the surface and recognize the underlying issues.