7 Dark Meanings Behind Pink Floyd Animals Lyrics

Pink Floyd's iconic album "Animals" has been a staple of rock music for decades, with its thought-provoking lyrics and haunting melodies. While the album's themes of politics, society, and human nature are widely acknowledged, there are also several dark meanings behind the lyrics that are often overlooked. In this article, we will delve into the darker aspects of "Animals" and explore the symbolism, imagery, and messages that are woven throughout the album.

Exploring the Dark Side of Human Nature

Pink Floyd's "Animals" is often seen as a commentary on the state of society in the late 1970s. The album's lyrics paint a picture of a world where humans are divided into three distinct categories: dogs, pigs, and sheep. On the surface, this appears to be a simplistic and even humorous way of looking at human behavior. However, as we dig deeper, it becomes clear that the album is actually exploring some very dark themes.

The Dogs: A Representation of Aggression and Control

The dogs in "Animals" are often seen as a representation of the aggressive and controlling aspects of human nature. They are depicted as being in control, but also as being driven by their own desires and impulses. This is reflected in the lyrics of "Dogs," where the protagonist is described as being "just a dog in the machine."

The dogs can also be seen as a representation of the patriarchal society, where men are in control and women are subservient. This is reflected in the lyrics of "Pigs (Three Different Ones)," where the pigs are described as being "well-educated" and "well-read," but also as being "chauvinistic" and "misogynistic."

The Pigs: A Representation of Corruption and Oppression

The pigs in "Animals" are often seen as a representation of the corrupt and oppressive aspects of human nature. They are depicted as being selfish and greedy, and as using their power and influence to exploit and oppress others. This is reflected in the lyrics of "Pigs (Three Different Ones)," where the pigs are described as being "lustful" and "cruel."

The pigs can also be seen as a representation of the corporate world, where profits are prioritized over people. This is reflected in the lyrics of "Sheep," where the sheep are described as being "herded" and "controlled" by the pigs.

The Sheep: A Representation of Conformity and Obedience

The sheep in "Animals" are often seen as a representation of the conformist and obedient aspects of human nature. They are depicted as being passive and submissive, and as being controlled by the pigs. This is reflected in the lyrics of "Sheep," where the sheep are described as being " gentle" and "timid."

The sheep can also be seen as a representation of the general public, who are often unaware of the corruption and oppression that surrounds them. This is reflected in the lyrics of "Sheep," where the sheep are described as being "blind" and "oblivious."

The Wall: A Representation of Isolation and Alienation

The wall in "Animals" is often seen as a representation of the isolation and alienation that can result from the corruption and oppression of society. It is depicted as a physical barrier that separates the individual from the rest of society, and as a metaphor for the emotional and psychological barriers that can prevent us from connecting with others.

The wall can also be seen as a representation of the way in which society can isolate and alienate individuals who do not conform to its norms and expectations. This is reflected in the lyrics of "Pigs (Three Different Ones)," where the pigs are described as being " isolated" and "alienated."

Conclusion: The Dark Meanings Behind Pink Floyd's Animals

In conclusion, Pink Floyd's "Animals" is an album that is full of dark meanings and symbolism. The album's lyrics paint a picture of a world where humans are divided into three distinct categories: dogs, pigs, and sheep. However, as we delve deeper into the album, it becomes clear that these categories are actually a representation of the darker aspects of human nature, including aggression, corruption, oppression, conformity, and obedience.

The album is also a commentary on the state of society in the late 1970s, and the way in which individuals can become isolated and alienated from the rest of society. The wall in "Animals" is a powerful metaphor for the way in which society can isolate and alienate individuals who do not conform to its norms and expectations.