The lyrics of "Glitter In Their Eyes" by Patti Smith depict a chaotic and dystopian world where children are exploited and stripped of their innocence by a society obsessed with materialism and consumerism. The song speaks of monkeys racing through the night, people being cut down and commodified, the lure of glitter and diamonds, and the bleak reality of children selling their souls for souvenirs.

Meaning of "Glitter In Their Eyes" by Patti Smith

"Glitter In Their Eyes" delves into the harsh realities of a society where innocence and childhood are commodified and exploited for profit. Patti Smith paints a vivid picture of a world where materialism and consumerism have consumed the essence of humanity, leaving behind a hollow shell of existence where children are no longer seen as individuals but as mere commodities to be traded and discarded. The imagery of monkeys on bikes, dust of diamonds making one sneeze, and children running through junkyards symbolize the chaotic and distorted nature of society. The reference to the World Trade Organization (WTO) blues and Dow Jones symbolize the corporate greed and economic systems that perpetuate this exploitation. Ultimately, the song serves as a powerful critique of a world that values profit over people, innocence, and humanity.