Electric Barbarella

Duran Duran's 'Electric Barbarella' is a fascinating exploration of the intersection between technology and human desire. The song's protagonist is enamored with a synthetic being, a 'Barbarella,' who embodies his ideal of perfection. The lyrics describe the protagonist's initial encounter with this artificial figure on a showroom floor, highlighting the consumerist aspect of acquiring a 'dream' companion. The use of materials like 'ultra-chrome, latex, and steel' emphasizes the artificiality and modernity of this creation, contrasting sharply with the warmth and complexity of human relationships.

The song delves into themes of control and fantasy. The protagonist 'plugs in' the Barbarella, dimming the lights to create an intimate, controlled environment. This act of plugging in and the subsequent 'plastic kiss' symbolize a desire for a perfect, unchanging partner who can be turned on and off at will. The lyrics 'try to resist then we touch hallucinate and tranquilize' suggest a blurring of reality and fantasy, where the protagonist's interactions with the Barbarella lead to a state of altered consciousness, perhaps hinting at the numbing effect of substituting real human connection with artificial experiences.

Culturally, 'Electric Barbarella' can be seen as a commentary on the increasing role of technology in our lives and relationships. The name 'Barbarella' itself is a nod to the 1968 science fiction film starring Jane Fonda, which explored themes of futuristic sexuality and artificiality. By invoking this reference, Duran Duran taps into a broader cultural conversation about the allure and dangers of technological advancements in the realm of personal relationships. The song's repetitive, almost hypnotic chorus reinforces the idea of being entranced by this synthetic perfection, raising questions about the nature of love and connection in an increasingly digital world.