Plastic Jesus

The Flaming Lips' song 'Plastic Jesus' delves into the juxtaposition of faith and materialism, using the imagery of a plastic Jesus figurine on a car dashboard to explore deeper themes. The lyrics open with a carefree attitude towards life's uncertainties, symbolized by the line 'Don't care if it rains or freezes, long as I got my plastic Jesus.' This plastic Jesus represents a superficial form of comfort and protection, suggesting that the singer finds solace in a tangible, albeit trivial, object rather than in a profound spiritual belief.

The song continues to describe the plastic Jesus in vivid detail, noting its 'colors, pink and pleasant' and its 'iridescent' glow. These descriptions emphasize the artificial and commercial nature of the figurine, contrasting sharply with the traditional, more solemn representations of religious icons. The mention of taking the plastic Jesus 'when you travel far' hints at the human desire for constant reassurance and the need to carry a sense of security wherever one goes, even if that security is rooted in something as insubstantial as a plastic figure.

In the latter part of the song, the lyrics introduce another religious icon, a 'sweet Madonna dressed in rhinestone,' further highlighting the theme of commodified faith. The singer's confidence while 'goin' 90' on the road, bolstered by the presence of the Virgin Mary, underscores the reliance on these material symbols for protection and moral assurance. This reliance raises questions about the authenticity of such faith and whether it can truly offer the spiritual guidance and safety that the singer seeks. Through 'Plastic Jesus,' The Flaming Lips invite listeners to reflect on the nature of their own beliefs and the objects they hold dear for comfort and security.