Meaning of "Sick of You" by Lou Reed

"Sick of You" is a scathing critique of contemporary society, reflecting Lou Reed's disillusionment and dissatisfaction with the state of the world. The lyrics paint a picture of a world gone awry, where everything seems to be falling apart. In each verse, Reed highlights different societal issues, ranging from political corruption and the selling-off of landmarks to environmental degradation and personal loss. The lyrics are filled with dark humor and irony, suggesting that the absurdity of the situations is overwhelming and rendering everything meaningless.

Reed's use of hyperbole and surreal imagery adds to the satirical nature of the song. Lines like "NASA blew up the moon" and "my best friend Bill died from a poison pill" create an atmosphere of chaos and absurdity. Reed critiques political figures and institutions, mocking individuals like Oliver North and the Ayatollah. He also critiques the media, referencing the reporting of tragic events like the trucker driving into a nuclear reactor as entertainment on shows like Morton Downey.

At its core, "Sick of You" reflects Reed's frustration with the world's problems that seem insurmountable and overwhelming. The song suggests a feeling of powerlessness in the face of these issues. Reed presents a bleak and critical perspective, questioning the actions of individuals and the state of society as a whole.