Respectable

The Rolling Stones' song "Respectable" is a biting satire on the concept of respectability in society. The lyrics paint a picture of individuals who have climbed the social ladder and are now considered pillars of society. However, the song exposes the hypocrisy and moral decay that often accompany such status. The opening lines, "Well now we're respected in society / We don't worry about the things that we used to be," suggest a transformation that comes with societal acceptance, but it quickly becomes clear that this respectability is superficial.

The song's narrative takes a sharp turn with lines like "We're talking heroin with the president / Well it's a problem, sir, but it can't be bent." This juxtaposition of high social standing with illicit activities highlights the double standards and corruption that can exist behind a veneer of respectability. The mention of a "rag-trade girl" and "the queen of porn" further underscores the idea that societal respect is often a facade, masking a more sordid reality.

The repeated refrain, "She's so respectable," is laced with irony. The protagonist's plea to "Get out of my life / Don't take my wife / Don't come back" adds a personal dimension to the critique, suggesting that the pursuit of respectability can lead to personal turmoil and loss. The Rolling Stones use this song to challenge the listener to question what it truly means to be respectable and to recognize the often hypocritical nature of societal norms.