Meaning of "Pump It Up" by Elvis Costello

"Pump It Up" can be interpreted as a critique of consumer culture and the pressure to constantly be stimulated and entertained. The opening lines convey a sense of restlessness and irritability with the constant bombardment of distractions and noise. The repetition of "pump it up" throughout the song suggests a societal expectation to always be hyped up and energized, even when it's unnecessary. The line "Down in the pleasure center, hell-bent or heaven-sent" implies that this need for stimulation is both pleasurable and potentially damaging.

The lyrics also touch on the dynamics of a toxic relationship. The girl being described is compared to a drug, a chemical, and a narcotic, suggesting that she has a powerful and addictive hold on the speaker. The desire to "torture" and possess her highlights the speaker's struggle for control and the destructive nature of their desires. The line "All the things you bought for her, putting up your temperature" suggests that the speaker showers the girl with gifts and attention in an attempt to gain some semblance of power over her, but it only serves to elevate their own frustration and desperation.

The references to the fashion show and the bargain bin portray the fleeting and shallow nature of materialistic pursuits. The pressure to conform to societal standards and the fickle nature of trends are depicted through these images. The line "No use wishing now for any other sin" suggests resignation to the fact that, despite any desires for change, the speaker is stuck in this cycle of excess and dissatisfaction.

Overall, "Pump It Up" draws attention to the empty and unfulfilling nature of constant stimulation and the destructive power of addictive relationships. It serves as a commentary on the pressures of consumer culture and the futile pursuit of instant gratification.