On social media

Pet Shop Boys' song "On Social Media" delves into the complex and often contradictory nature of social media platforms. The lyrics highlight how these platforms have become integral to modern life, offering a space for people to engage in debates, share personal moments, and feel a sense of community. The song opens by pointing out how quickly the world is changing and how being on social media can make one feel ahead of the curve. This reflects the rapid pace of information dissemination and the sense of immediacy that social media provides.

The song also touches on the performative aspects of social media. Lines like "My likes are in the thousands" and "You're feeling hashtag blessed" underscore the validation and self-worth people often seek through likes, retweets, and positive comments. This performative nature can create a superficial sense of belonging and achievement, as people curate their lives to appear more appealing to their online audience. The mention of taking selfies and posting family pictures further emphasizes this point, showing how personal moments are often shared for public consumption and approval.

However, the song doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of social media. It mentions how democracy is losing its way and how greed is getting greedier, suggesting that social media can be a distraction from more pressing societal issues. The lyrics also address the anonymity that allows for the expression of hate, highlighting the toxic behavior that can proliferate online. This duality—of feeling empowered yet contributing to negative discourse—captures the essence of the social media experience, making the song a poignant commentary on contemporary digital life.