"Senior Service" by Elvis Costello and The Attractions is a song that explores themes of ambition, dissatisfaction, and the desire for power and success in the corporate world. The chorus repeats the phrase "Senior service, Junior dissatisfaction," which refers to the hierarchy within the workplace. The "Senior service" represents the higher-ranking employees or those in positions of authority, while the "Junior dissatisfaction" refers to the discontentment of those who aspire to reach those higher positions. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist is envious of the successes and privileges that the senior employees enjoy. They express a longing to take their place and benefit from the perks, such as a seat, a paycheck, or a company car. The line "It's a breath you took too late, it's a death that's worse than fate" implies that the protagonist feels they missed out on opportunities for advancement and success, leading to a feeling of despair and regret. Furthermore, the song contains a darker element of resentment and aggression. The lyrics mention wanting to "chop off your head and watch it roll into a basket" regarding the senior employees. This violent imagery symbolizes a desire to overthrow the established hierarchy and take control. The verse "They took me in the office and they told me very carefully, the way that I could benefit from death and disability" suggests that the protagonist has been informed of a potential advantage or promotion resulting from someone else's misfortune, such as a job opening due to death or disability. This highlights the cutthroat nature of the corporate environment and the protagonist's willingness to exploit any opportunity for personal gain. Overall, "Senior Service" delves into the frustrations, envy, and ambitions often experienced in professional settings. It paints a picture of a competitive world where individuals may resort to ruthless tactics to achieve success and climb the corporate ladder.
