Cocaine Socialism

Pulp's song 'Cocaine Socialism' is a biting critique of the intersection between fame, politics, and hypocrisy. The lyrics tell the story of a meeting between the narrator and a political figure who is eager to leverage the narrator's celebrity status for political gain. The song opens with a seemingly casual invitation to discuss the future of the nation, but quickly reveals a more cynical agenda. The political figure flatters the narrator, asking for an autograph for his daughter, before offering cocaine and questioning the narrator's socialist credentials. This juxtaposition of flattery and vice sets the tone for the song's exploration of moral compromise and manipulation.

The chorus and subsequent verses delve deeper into the contradictions and superficiality of the political figure's approach. The politician's casual offer of cocaine and his assumption that the narrator's lifestyle aligns with socialist ideals highlight the shallow understanding and exploitation of political ideologies for personal gain. The repeated question, 'Are you a socialist?' becomes a rhetorical device to expose the hollowness of the politician's intentions. The song critiques the commodification of political beliefs and the way they are used to manipulate public figures and, by extension, their followers.

The final verses underscore the theme of hypocrisy, as the politician urges the narrator to 'rock the vote' and 'tow the party line,' all while promising secrecy and self-interest. The repeated assurances of 'We won't tell' emphasize the duplicity and moral bankruptcy of the political figure. Pulp uses 'Cocaine Socialism' to highlight the dissonance between public personas and private actions, and the ways in which political and social ideals can be co-opted and corrupted by those in power. The song serves as a powerful commentary on the intersection of celebrity, politics, and the often cynical motivations that drive both.