Master and Servant (Live) [Basel 30/11/84]

Song Meaning

The lyrics present a stark, almost transactional view of a relationship framed as a game of "master and servant." The narrator invites a partner into this dynamic, explicitly stating, "You treat me like a dog, get me down on my knees." This immediately establishes a power imbalance, setting the stage for a scenario where equality is deliberately cast aside. The core of the song lies in this deliberate embrace of a hierarchical structure, presented not as a flaw but as a deliberate choice for engagement. The central tension arises from the narrator's assertion that this "play between the sheets" is "a lot like life." This comparison is jarring, suggesting that the dynamics of dominance and submission in a sexual context mirror broader societal or personal power struggles. The lyrics explicitly state, "Forget all about equality," reinforcing the idea that this game is a conscious rejection of egalitarian ideals, opting instead for a defined, unequal structure. The most striking aspect of the craft is the repeated, almost chant-like invocation of "master and servant." This repetition, particularly in the chorus and bridge, hammers home the central theme, making it feel both inevitable and inescapable. The refrain, "It's a lot like life and that's what's appealing," offers a cynical justification, suggesting that the appeal lies in escaping the "throwaway feeling" of disposable fun by engaging in something that feels more substantial, even if it's built on inequality. Ultimately, the lyrics' effectiveness stems from their bluntness and the unsettling equation of sexual dynamics with life itself. By stripping away romanticism and focusing on the raw power exchange, the song forces a confrontation with uncomfortable truths about control and submission. The repeated phrases and direct comparisons create a sense of grim inevitability, making the listener question the nature of power in relationships, both intimate and otherwise.