The Used's song "Money Monster" tells the story of someone who has become consumed by the pursuit of money and material wealth. The lyrics criticize this individual for prioritizing money over everything else in life. The phrase "You put your money where your mouth is for the last time, sugar" suggests that the person has been making empty promises or boasting about their wealth. The line "You think it's worth it to keep pulling that trigger, no one tells you if you win, you end up dead" implies that the person believes that their relentless pursuit of money will bring them success, but in the end, it will only lead to their downfall. The lyrics suggest that the individual has lost sight of their own values and has cut ties with their own potential and happiness, represented by "cutting up their own wings" and forgetting how to sing. The song further criticizes the individual for their unethical behavior, describing their actions as filthy and stinky. The lyrics imply that the person has neglected their own well-being and relationships, as shown by the suggestion to call their mother and the line "my opinions are unpopular at best." Despite the criticism, the song also offers a glimmer of hope. It acknowledges that the person is not a monster but something bigger, suggesting that they have the potential for change and redemption. The lyrics express a belief in the person's ability to overcome their obsession with money and regain their true self. The chorus emphasizes the support and belief others still have in this person, despite their flaws. The phrase "we still believe in you" reflects the belief that everyone has the capacity for growth and change. The lyrics also imply that this person gives the narrator something to believe in, possibly suggesting that they see the potential for transformation and redemption in the individual. In the end, the song urges the person to recognize that they are not defined by their pursuit of money and material wealth. It encourages them to embrace their true potential and reconnect with their own values and happiness. The overall message is to find a balance between the pursuit of money and maintaining genuine connections and personal growth.
