"Stick Out Your Tongue" is a song by Elvis Costello and The Roots, released in 2013. The lyrics of the song critique various societal issues and political hypocrisy. The song starts by describing a situation where the media invades the lives of a family, interviewing them and offering compensation while capturing the tears on their faces. It highlights how tears and emotions can be exploited and fixed with money and media manipulation. The lyrics then touch upon the obsession people have with celebrities, as the protagonist sleeps with the shirt of a deceased country singer, causing jealousy within her husband. It suggests that these obsessions can often lead to careers, while other parents auction off their kidnapped children's tears. The chorus poses a question, asking what one would say or do when faced with such situations. It also mentions the pairing of children and animals, possibly referring to innocence and vulnerability. The lyrics take a darker turn, discussing the desire to harm and exploit others. They mention melting people down for pills and soap, symbolizing the dehumanization and commodification of individuals. The song also criticizes the privileged and powerful, referring to them as the "fag ends of the aristocracy," expressing their hypocrisy and mediocrity. The lyrics highlight their excesses and emphasize how they thrive on power and influence. The chorus repeats, urging listeners to stick out their tongues and drink down the venom, suggesting a rebellion against the deceit and injustices depicted in the song. The final verses discuss the bitter reality of the world. The sugar-coated pill, which represents false promises, becomes increasingly bitter. The song mentions how one may believe that their country needs them, but in reality, it doesn't. It encourages individuals to pack up their troubles and not waste time, rallying around false ideologies. The lyrics conclude by emphasizing the role of the media in controlling narratives and downplaying crises. It questions whether society has learned to lie and cheat and encourages listeners to reject the status quo, melt down the power structures, and demand change. Overall, "Stick Out Your Tongue" sends a powerful message against political hypocrisy, media manipulation, and societal injustices, urging listeners to question and challenge the norms.
