Sorted For E's And Wizz

Pulp's song "Sorted For E's And Wizz" delves into the highs and lows of rave culture in the 1990s. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a rave experience, capturing both the euphoria and the subsequent emptiness that often follows. The opening lines question whether the future is supposed to feel like this, or if it's just a mass of people standing in a field, hinting at the disillusionment that can accompany such events. The phrase "sorted for E's and Wizz" refers to being prepared with ecstasy and speed, common drugs at raves, which enhance the sense of unity and euphoria but also contribute to the hollow feeling that follows.

The chorus highlights the temporary nature of the high, noting that while it feels alright in the middle of the night, the comedown the next morning is inevitable. This cyclical pattern of highs and lows is a central theme of the song, reflecting the transient nature of drug-induced euphoria. The lyrics also touch on the sense of disconnection and isolation that can occur, as seen in the lines about losing friends and dancing alone. The mention of pirate radio and buying tickets from a shady character in Camden Town adds a layer of authenticity, grounding the song in the real-life experiences of rave-goers.

As the song progresses, the protagonist's sense of disorientation and regret becomes more pronounced. The line about wanting to call one's mother and confessing to having lost an important part of their brain in a field in Hampshire poignantly captures the emotional and psychological toll of such experiences. The repeated questioning of whether one will ever come down underscores the uncertainty and potential danger of relying on substances for happiness. Pulp's "Sorted For E's And Wizz" is a powerful commentary on the fleeting nature of pleasure and the deeper search for meaning in a culture often defined by its excesses.