Common People

Pulp's 'Common People' is a biting social commentary wrapped in a catchy Britpop tune. The song tells the story of a wealthy girl who expresses a desire to live like 'common people,' romanticizing the working-class lifestyle. The narrator, presumably from a lower socio-economic background, is initially amused by her naivety and attempts to show her the reality of the life she claims to desire.

The lyrics highlight the stark contrast between the girl's romanticized view of poverty and the harsh realities of working-class life. The narrator takes her through various mundane and gritty experiences, like renting a flat above a shop and getting a job, but points out that she will never truly understand the struggle because she has a safety net—her wealthy father—to fall back on. The song criticizes the trend of wealthy individuals glamorizing poverty without understanding the lack of choice and control that often accompanies it.

The chorus of 'Common People' is both catchy and melancholic, encapsulating the frustration of the working class who can't escape their circumstances. The song suggests that the girl's fascination with poverty is a form of tourism, a temporary experience that she can opt out of whenever she chooses. It's a powerful message about class, privilege, and the often invisible barriers that separate people in society.