White Lines (don't do it)

Duran Duran's song "White Lines (don't do it)" is a powerful commentary on the dangers and allure of cocaine use. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the seductive nature of the drug, describing it as a "vision dream of passion" that blows through the mind. The repeated phrases "freeze - rock" and "higher baby, get higher baby" emphasize the cyclical and addictive nature of cocaine, while the warnings to "don't ever come down" and "don't do it" serve as stark reminders of the drug's destructive potential.

The song uses a variety of metaphors to convey the highs and lows of cocaine use. The "white line highway" represents the path of addiction, with tolls to be paid in the form of one's soul and sanity. The lyrics also highlight the economic and social costs of drug use, noting that the longer one stays on this path, the more they pay, both financially and mentally. The imagery of "a million magic crystals, painted, pure and white" contrasts sharply with the bitter reality of addiction, described as "twice as bitter as salt."

Cultural references in the song further underscore its message. The mention of athletes, governors, gangsters, and businessmen illustrates the widespread impact of cocaine across different strata of society. The song also touches on the legal and social consequences of drug use, with references to arrests and the corrupting influence of money. The repeated refrain "freeze - rock" serves as a chilling reminder of the drug's grip on its users, urging them to break free from its hold. Through its compelling lyrics and evocative imagery, "White Lines (don't do it)" serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of cocaine addiction.