Fistful Of Diamonds

W.A.S.P.'s song 'Fistful Of Diamonds' delves into the intoxicating and often destructive pursuit of wealth and fame. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person consumed by the desire for material riches, symbolized by diamonds, silver, gold, and precious steel. The repeated phrase 'I want a fistful, fistful of diamonds' underscores the insatiable greed and the relentless quest for more, driven by the allure of glory and fame. This obsession with wealth is portrayed as a powerful force that drives the individual to madness, as indicated by the lines 'Money makes me crazy, money drives me insane.'

The song also touches on the darker aspects of this pursuit, such as 'LAWLESS greed' and the 'root of all evil.' These phrases suggest a moral compromise and a willingness to engage in unethical behavior to achieve financial success. The mention of 'Fortune' and 'power that rules the game' highlights the seductive nature of wealth and its ability to corrupt. The protagonist's love for money and disdain for shame reveal a character who is fully aware of the moral implications but chooses to ignore them in favor of material gain.

In the latter part of the song, the lyrics describe the intoxicating effect of wealth, with phrases like 'The smell of green I stack my dollars high' and 'Intoxicating, my mind's wreaking havoc.' This suggests that the pursuit of wealth has not only consumed the individual's actions but also their mind, leading to a state of mental chaos. The reference to a 'famous face' and getting 'what you can't buy' implies that the protagonist believes that wealth can bring them everything they desire, including intangible aspects like fame and respect. However, the underlying tone of the song suggests a cautionary tale about the dangers of letting greed and the pursuit of wealth take over one's life.