Opportunities (Let's Make Lots Of Money)
Pet Shop Boys
The Allure and Irony of Wealth in 'Opportunities (Let's Make Lots Of Money)'
Pet Shop Boys' song 'Opportunities (Let's Make Lots Of Money)' is a satirical take on the pursuit of wealth and the dynamics of partnership. The lyrics revolve around two characters who believe they can achieve great financial success by combining their respective talents—one has the brains, and the other has the looks and brawn. This partnership is presented as a formula for making 'lots of money,' highlighting the superficial and often cynical nature of such ambitions.
The song delves into the frustrations and disillusionments of the characters. The narrator expresses a desire to move beyond 'scheming and messing around with jerks,' indicating a history of failed attempts and unfulfilled promises. The mention of a broken car parked outside serves as a metaphor for stalled progress and unachieved dreams. The narrator's academic background and skills in mathematics and computer programming contrast sharply with his current situation, emphasizing the gap between potential and reality.
The repeated refrain 'Let's make lots of money' underscores the relentless pursuit of wealth, while the line 'If there aren't [opportunities], you can make them' suggests a willingness to bend or break rules to achieve success. The song's tone is both aspirational and ironic, capturing the allure of wealth while critiquing the lengths to which people will go to attain it. The final lines, pondering who will bury them when they die, add a somber note, reminding listeners of the ultimate futility of material pursuits.
The Pet Shop Boys, known for their synth-pop sound and clever, often ironic lyrics, use this song to explore themes of ambition, partnership, and the moral ambiguities of the quest for wealth. The upbeat, catchy melody contrasts with the darker, more cynical undertones of the lyrics, creating a complex and thought-provoking piece of music.