Meaning of Garbo by The Pogues

The Pogues' song "Garbo" takes listeners on a vivid journey through the streets of various cities, while exploring themes of beauty, sin, and the allure of the unconventional. The song follows the life and experiences of a garbo, or garbage collector, who finds unexpected admiration from the lovely sheilas of the world. Beneath the gritty surface of the lyrics lie unexpected and imaginative themes that contribute to the overall narrative of the song.One of the standout lyrics in "Garbo" is "Saint-Tropez in the golden days of the gorgeous Brigitte Bardot." This line not only alludes to a glamorous era but also delves into the fleeting nature of beauty. By mentioning the icon that is Brigitte Bardot, the song suggests that even the most beautiful moments and people eventually fade away. This develops the theme of impermanence and reminds us to appreciate and cherish the beauty that surrounds us.Another noteworthy lyric is "I tasted sin among the bins down at Alvarado." Here, the song delves into the idea that sin can be found in unexpected places. It challenges the conventional notion that sin is only confined to specific environments or individuals. By associating sin with the garbage bins, the song suggests that it exists all around us, lurking even in the most mundane aspects of life. This theme serves as a reminder to avoid judgment and to remember that no one is immune to temptation.The lyric "As the garbo trucks take away the muck of last night's puke and chunder" highlights the notion of cleansing and renewal. The song portrays the garbo as a figure who plays a vital role in removing the remnants of the previous night's revelry. Through this imagery, the song touches upon the idea of redemption and the importance of letting go of past mistakes. It encourages listeners to embrace a fresh start and move forward, leaving behind the messiness of the past.Furthermore, the line "Follow me among the shit, me boys, stinking all and rough" offers a bold perspective on finding beauty and value within the seemingly undesirable. It suggests that within the struggles and challenges of life, there is still something worth seeking and appreciating. This theme echoes the notion of finding beauty in unexpected places and reminds us to look beyond the surface to discover hidden treasures.Overall, "Garbo" presents a series of unexpected and imaginative themes that tie back to the overarching idea of finding beauty amidst the unconventional. The song embodies the notion that beauty is subjective and can be found in the most unexpected circumstances. Whether it's the fleeting nature of glamour, the presence of sin in mundane places, the potential for renewal and redemption, or the discovery of value amidst the undesirable, "Garbo" encourages listeners to embrace the unconventional and appreciate the beauty that exists within it.