Men Of Good Fortune

Lou Reed's 'Men Of Good Fortune' delves into the stark contrasts between the lives of the wealthy and the poor, exploring themes of privilege, despair, and existential indifference. The song juxtaposes the lives of 'men of good fortune'—those born into wealth and power—with 'men of poor beginnings,' who struggle to make a mark in the world. Reed's lyrics suggest that wealth often leads to a sense of emptiness and a lack of purpose, while poverty breeds a relentless desire for a better life, even if it means risking everything.

The song opens with the assertion that men of good fortune often cause empires to fall, hinting at the destructive potential of unchecked power and privilege. In contrast, men of poor beginnings are depicted as powerless, unable to effect significant change. This dichotomy is further explored through the imagery of the rich son waiting for his father to die, symbolizing the passive inheritance of wealth, while the poor are left to drown their sorrows in alcohol. Reed's own indifference, expressed in the line 'And me I just don't care at all,' adds a layer of existential detachment, suggesting a disillusionment with both ends of the social spectrum.

Reed also touches on the idea that wealth does not guarantee happiness or fulfillment. The line 'Men of good fortune, often wish that they could die' underscores the existential crisis faced by the wealthy, who, despite their material abundance, find life devoid of meaning. On the other hand, the poor are driven by a desperate desire to attain the 'great things that life has to give,' even if it means sacrificing their lives. This relentless pursuit of wealth and the contrasting indifference of the narrator highlight the futility and absurdity of societal values centered around material success.

Through 'Men Of Good Fortune,' Lou Reed offers a poignant critique of social inequality and the hollow nature of wealth. The song serves as a reflection on the human condition, questioning the true value of fortune and the societal structures that perpetuate disparity.