Meaning of "Pixeleen" by Steely Dan

The song "Pixeleen" by Steely Dan delves into the idea of creating and representing idealized female characters in popular culture. Pixeleen is depicted as a mysterious, alluring, and dangerous figure, almost like a computer-generated persona brought to life. The lyrics explore the contrast between reality and fantasy, as Pixeleen moves through various settings and scenarios, ultimately existing as a product of storytelling, imagination, and media manipulation. The character embodies different archetypes of femininity, blending traits of strength, vulnerability, and seduction. The song critiques the way women are often portrayed in media, with Pixeleen serving as a symbol of the constructed nature of female identity in entertainment.