Song Meaning

Plastic Bertrand's "Affection" isn't just a sugary-sweet bubblegum pop tune; beneath the catchy "wo oo oo" chorus lies a surprisingly poignant commentary on modern alienation. The song meaning centers on a primal human need – affection – set against a backdrop of urban and media-induced malaise. Bertrand's narrator is "sick with a sickness," a pervasive feeling of disconnection that resonates both in the city and on the screen. This suggests a world where genuine connection is increasingly rare, replaced by superficial interactions and manufactured realities. The repetition of "Affection, wo oo oo" becomes less a joyful refrain and more a desperate plea. The lyrics cleverly juxtapose this widespread lack of human warmth with the simple, unconditional love found in animals. His dog and canary, Eugène, offer the affection that society withholds. The dog licks his hand, the canary sings – these are uncomplicated expressions of love that stand in stark contrast to the coldness of the human world. The line, "the world is too busy turning to even pause for something important," is a sharp critique of societal priorities, highlighting our collective failure to prioritize emotional connection in an increasingly fast-paced and materialistic world. Ultimately, "Affection" offers a vision of escape. The final verse speaks of a journey to "the third galaxy" with friends, family, and anyone else seeking genuine connection. This utopian vision, while seemingly fantastical, underscores the depth of the narrator's longing for a world where affection is readily available, not a scarce and precious commodity. It is a bittersweet message, acknowledging the pain of the present while holding onto the hope of a more emotionally fulfilling future. Plastic Bertrand uses the simplicity of the lyrics to amplify the importance of love and connection in a world increasingly starved of it. The song is a call to action, a reminder of our shared human need, and a hopeful anthem for those seeking a more affectionate existence.