People Make The World Go Around

The Stylistics' song "People Make The World Go Around" delves into the complexities and contradictions of human society. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of everyday struggles and societal issues, from labor strikes to environmental pollution. The opening lines highlight the frustrations of the working class, such as trash collectors and bus drivers, who are fighting for better wages. This struggle is juxtaposed with the broader impact of their actions, like pollution, suggesting a cycle of cause and effect that permeates society.

The chorus, with its metaphor of a carousel, emphasizes the cyclical nature of these societal issues. The phrase "the up and down, the carousel" suggests that these problems are not new but are part of an ongoing cycle of change and adaptation. The repetition of "People make the world go 'round" underscores the idea that human actions and decisions are at the core of these cycles. The song implies that while individuals may feel powerless, collectively, they have a significant impact on the world.

The second verse shifts focus to the financial sector, critiquing the disconnect between the wealthy and the working class. The imagery of Wall Street losing money and blaming it on superficial changes like longer hair highlights the absurdity of their concerns compared to the real struggles of everyday people. The mention of "big men smokin' in their easy chairs" further emphasizes the disparity between those in power and those affected by their decisions. Through these lyrics, The Stylistics offer a poignant commentary on the social and economic inequalities that persist in society, reminding us that despite these challenges, it is ultimately people who drive the world forward.