Smell The Roses

Roger Waters' song 'Smell The Roses' is a poignant critique of modern society, filled with vivid imagery and biting commentary. The song opens with the metaphor of a 'mad dog pulling at his chain,' symbolizing the uncontrollable and dangerous forces at play in the world. The 'chimney's broken in the sky' suggests environmental degradation and industrial pollution, setting a grim tone for the rest of the song.

The repeated refrain 'Wake up and smell the roses' serves as a call to awareness, urging listeners to recognize the harsh realities around them. Waters contrasts idyllic imagery like 'field of dreams' with the harsh truth of 'screams' and 'nothing but hope at the end of the road.' This juxtaposition highlights the disillusionment and false promises that pervade society. The mention of 'gold in the chimney smoke' and 'real money' underscores the corrupting influence of wealth and capitalism.

In the second verse, Waters takes us to 'the room where they make the explosives,' a chilling reminder of the destructive capabilities of modern technology and warfare. The lines 'where they put your name on the bomb' and 'scratch out words like right and wrong' emphasize the moral ambiguity and ethical compromises made in the pursuit of power and profit. The phrase 'smell the phosphorus' further intensifies the imagery of war and destruction.

The final verse continues this theme, with references to 'smell the bacon' and 'run your greasy fingers through her hair,' suggesting exploitation and moral decay. The line 'this is the life that you have taken' serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of our actions. Waters concludes with a somber reflection on loss and the futility of it all, urging us to 'throw a photo on the funeral pyre' and 'forget the threat she poses,' encapsulating the song's overarching message of disillusionment and the need for awakening.