Short Skirt / Long Jacket

Cake's song "Short Skirt / Long Jacket" is a satirical and somewhat humorous take on modern ideals of success and attractiveness. The lyrics describe a woman who embodies both traditional and contemporary qualities of desirability. She is intelligent, efficient, and financially savvy, with a mind "like a diamond" and "fingernails that shine like justice." These metaphors suggest a sharp, unyielding intellect and a sense of moral clarity.

The song juxtaposes these intellectual and moral qualities with physical and material attributes, such as "shoes that cut" and a "short skirt and a long jacket." This combination of traits paints a picture of a woman who is both alluring and competent, blending the superficial with the substantial. The repeated imagery of her touring a facility and picking up slack underscores her capability and industriousness, making her a figure of both beauty and efficiency.

Cultural references to financial success and corporate environments, like meeting at Citibank and discussing dividends, further emphasize the modern, capitalist context in which this ideal woman operates. The lyrics also touch on themes of transformation and aspiration, as seen in the lines about changing her name and trading her car. These elements suggest a desire for upward mobility and a constant striving for a better, more successful life. Cake's distinctive musical style, characterized by a blend of rock, funk, and alternative elements, complements the song's ironic and critical tone, making it a memorable commentary on contemporary societal values.