Monkey Business

Skid Row's 'Monkey Business' is a gritty, raw portrayal of the darker side of urban life and societal decay. The song paints a vivid picture of a world filled with chaos, corruption, and disillusionment. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and vivid imagery, depicting a society where superficiality and moral decay are rampant. The 'cartoon killers' and 'rag cover clones' symbolize the artificial and often sinister nature of modern life, where people are more concerned with appearances than substance.

The song's characters, such as the 'kangaroo lady' and 'slim intoxicado,' represent the various facets of this decaying society. These individuals are trapped in their own vices and struggles, unable to escape the cycle of despair. The 'kangaroo lady' with her 'bourbon in a pouch' and the 'slim intoxicado' drinking 'dime store hooch' are emblematic of people trying to numb their pain and escape reality. The recurring theme of 'monkey business' suggests that all these actions and behaviors are ultimately futile and meaningless, a mere distraction from the harsh realities of life.

The song also touches on themes of alienation and hopelessness. The line 'I ain't seen the sun since I don't know when' reflects a sense of being trapped in a perpetual state of darkness and despair. The 'blind man in the box' and the 'psycho on the edge' further emphasize the sense of isolation and the struggle to find meaning in a world that seems indifferent to their suffering. The 'vultures in the sewers' urging the psycho to jump symbolize the predatory nature of society, always ready to exploit the vulnerable.

'Monkey Business' is a powerful critique of modern society, highlighting the emptiness and hypocrisy that often lie beneath the surface. Skid Row's raw and unapologetic lyrics, combined with their hard-hitting musical style, create a compelling and thought-provoking commentary on the human condition.