Meaning of "Money" by Caroline Rose

Caroline Rose's "Money" delves into the pervasive influence of money on human actions and motivations. The lyrics explore the idea that everything, in one way or another, is driven by a desire for financial gain. The opening lines dismiss the possibility of actions being done for any other reason—whether it's for the betterment of society, personal satisfaction, or even love. By rejecting these alternative motivations, the song points to the notion that money ultimately trumps all other considerations in the modern world.

The repetition of the phrase "We did it for the money" serves as a central motif in the song. Through this repetition, the lyrics both emphasize and critique the overwhelming importance of money in our society. It suggests that individuals and even whole societies are willing to compromise their values, integrity, and even the well-being of others in pursuit of financial gain. The mention of the "war," "beast," and "neon Jesus" speaks to how the desire for money can drive individuals to engage in destructive or questionable activities, disregarding moral or ethical considerations.

Furthermore, the lyrics touch on the notion of conformity and societal pressures. The line "Rah, rah, priestess - join the army, do a dance" highlights the idea that people are often compelled to follow the established norms and expectations set by society, even if it means sacrificing their own values or aspirations. The mention of joining the army and doing a dance can be interpreted as a metaphor for conforming to societal expectations and participating in actions solely for the sake of monetary gain.

Overall, "Money" serves as a critical reflection on the pervasive influence of money in modern society. It highlights the ways in which money can corrupt motivations and drive individuals to compromise their values and principles. The lyrics suggest that the pursuit of money often overshadows more altruistic or noble motivations, ultimately questioning the damaging effects of placing monetary value above all else.