After You

Pulp's song 'After You' delves into the hedonistic and often self-destructive behaviors that people engage in to cope with loneliness and existential dread. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night filled with debauchery, where the characters are trying to fill a void left by a significant other or perhaps a deeper sense of emptiness. The opening lines set the stage with a biblical reference to the 'last night on earth,' suggesting a sense of finality and desperation. The mention of a party in Hackney, a district in London known for its nightlife, further emphasizes the theme of seeking solace in temporary pleasures.

The song's protagonist is clearly struggling with the aftermath of a relationship, as indicated by the repeated phrase 'after you.' The imagery of 'selling their souls' and 'shaking her booty' highlights the superficial and often degrading nature of these attempts to find meaning or distraction. The protagonist's internal conflict is palpable, as he 'shrivels inside at the sight of her beauty' and feels 'ashamed' of his actions. This duality of seeking pleasure while feeling guilt and shame is a recurring theme in the song.

The lyrics also touch on the monotony and consumerism of modern life, with references to shopping from 'Safeway to Tesco' and '7-11.' This suggests that the search for meaning extends beyond just nightlife and relationships, permeating everyday activities. The line 'from the cradle till death row' underscores the inevitability of this cycle, as people continue to chase fleeting moments of happiness throughout their lives. The song concludes with a sense of resignation, as the protagonist acknowledges the 'fast track express to the graveyard' but still urges to 'let's go,' indicating a reluctant acceptance of this way of life.