Politician
Cream
The Duality of Power: Cream's 'Politician'
Cream's song 'Politician' delves into the complex and often contradictory nature of political figures. The lyrics, delivered with a bluesy rock edge, paint a picture of a politician who is both self-assured and hypocritical. The opening lines, 'Hey now baby, get into my big black car,' set the stage for a metaphorical journey into the world of politics. The 'big black car' symbolizes power and authority, inviting the listener to explore the politician's true nature.
The chorus, 'I'm a political man and I practice what I preach,' is laden with irony. While the politician claims to practice what he preaches, the subsequent lines reveal a different story. He supports the left but leans to the right, embodying the duplicity often seen in political figures who say one thing but do another. This duality is further emphasized by his reluctance to engage in a fight, suggesting a lack of true conviction or courage.
The song's repetitive structure and bluesy rhythm underscore the cyclical and unchanging nature of political hypocrisy. By inviting the listener into his 'big black car,' the politician seeks to charm and persuade, yet his words reveal a deeper, more troubling reality. Cream uses this song to critique the superficial charm and underlying deceit of political figures, making 'Politician' a timeless commentary on the nature of power and integrity in politics.