Meaning of Skin Trade by Duran Duran

In Duran Duran's hit song "Skin Trade," the band explores various themes that delve deep into the complexities of human behavior and societal exploitation. The track, released in 1986, presents a critique of the rampant exploitation that occurs in the pursuit of success, money, and power. Through its thought-provoking lyrics and captivating melodies, the song captures the essence of the tumultuous society in which we live.One of the standout lyrics in "Skin Trade" is, "Working on the weekend, baby, she's working all through the night." This lyric serves as a powerful metaphor for the relentless pursuit of success at any cost. It highlights the pressure individuals face to sacrifice their personal lives and wellbeing in the name of financial gain. The theme embedded within this line speaks to the idea that many people are willing to compromise their personal happiness and fulfillment for the sake of money and societal expectations.Another captivating lyric in the song is, "A jump into the deep end gave her the evidence she required." This lyric explores the notion of individuals taking risks and making drastic decisions in order to gain tangible proof of their ambitions. It prompts reflection on the lengths people are willing to go to achieve their goals and the sometimes detrimental consequences they face along the way. The theme that emerges from this lyric speaks to the inherent need for validation and confirmation of one's choices and actions, even if they come at a cost.The chorus of "Skin Trade" contains the line, "We must be working for the Skin Trade." Here, the song touches upon the exploitative nature of certain industries and the toll it takes on individuals. It highlights the idea that many people find themselves unknowingly caught in the cycle of exploitation, be it in their professional or personal lives. This theme showcases the prevalence of exploitation within society and urges listeners to question the motivations and practices of those around them.The lyric, "Doctors of the revolution gave us the medicine we desired," is another poignant line within the song. It delves into the idea that sometimes individuals willingly allow themselves to be manipulated and controlled by those in power. It suggests that people can become so enamored with the promises and perceived benefits of certain ideologies or movements that they inadvertently become complicit in their own exploitation. This theme encourages listeners to critically examine the motivations of those they put their trust in.Overall, "Skin Trade" weaves together an intricate tapestry of themes that shed light on the sacrifice, exploitation, and compromise that are prevalent in our society. It serves as a reminder to question the systems and practices that we often take for granted, urging individuals to strive for personal fulfillment rather than blindly chasing material success. Through its thought-provoking and imaginative lyrics, the song provides a powerful commentary on the complexities of human nature and the pervasive influence of exploitation in our lives.