"Push Upstairs" by Underworld tells the story of the protagonist's infatuation with Tina, a woman who lives in Berlin. Tina rarely leaves messages on the protagonist's answering machine, but tonight she is present in his mind. The protagonist feels a sense of longing and desire for Tina and describes himself as being on the market, implying that he is available and looking for love. The lyrics describe the way words and thoughts travel faster when the protagonist is thinking about Tina. The idea of a thin cloud acting as a barrier between them is used as a metaphor for their emotional distance. The mention of a salty skin and fat circles may symbolize the potential for growth and connection between them. The song also introduces the character of a blonde woman who carries something important, possibly representing a memory or version of the protagonist's past self. This blue plastic girl, a symbol of artificiality, is juxtaposed with the cream that is being pushed away, suggesting a desire to move on from the past and embrace a new love. The lyrics mention coffee as something for the unbelievers, possibly suggesting a pick-me-up or source of energy. The song also references lipstick, which represents femininity and attraction, and the boyfriend blond, alluding to a potential romantic rival. The final lines of the song describe the protagonist's observation of Tina watching the faces of others as they watch her. This suggests a sense of detachment or detachment for both the protagonist and Tina, as if they are passive observers in their own lives. Overall, "Push Upstairs" explores themes of desire, longing, emotional distance, and the complexities of human connections. The lyrics evoke a sense of yearning and a desire for intimacy and understanding.
