THE NATIONAL LAW INSTITUTE UNIVERSITY, BHOPAL

SYNOPSIS

On

A Critical Analysis on Pink Floyd’s Animals

Submitted by
Rohit Misra
Enrolment Number: A-2475
Roll Number: 2022BALLB40
II Semester
B. A. LL. B. (Hons.)

submitted to
Prof. (Dr.) Mukesh Srivastava
Date of submission: 5 April 2023.
 DECLARATION

I, Rohit Misra S/o Ratnadip Misra Roll Number 2022BALLB40 Enrollment Number A-
2475 thus declare that the Project named “A Critical Analysis on Pink Floyd’s Animals” is
the result of my own independent study effort and was completed under the supervision of
Prof (Dr.) Mukesh Srivastava. The literature on which I relied for this Project has been
thoroughly and totally recognised in the footnotes and bibliography. The project is not
plagiarised, and every reasonable precaution has been made to avoid plagiarism. According
to the Turnitin Report, the similarity index is %. If my project is determined to be plagiarised,
the course instructor has every authority to request that I alter it. If I do not follow the
teacher's directions, my project may be sent to the Committee Against Use of Unfair Means
and I will comply with any decision that may be made by the committee.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECLARATION.......................................................................................................................2

TABLE OF CONTENTS...........................................................................................................3

TITLE.........................................................................................................................................4

INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................4

REVIEW OF LITERATURE....................................................................................................4

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM..................................................................................................5

HYPOTHESIS...........................................................................................................................5

OBJECTIVES OF STUDY........................................................................................................5

RESEARCH QUESTIONS........................................................................................................6

METHODOLOGY.....................................................................................................................7

ANIMALS (1977)......................................................................................................................8

Allegory and Symbolism........................................................................................................8

“Animals” as a critique of Capitalism..................................................................................10

Musical and Lyrical Innovations..........................................................................................11

Significance of the ‘Animals’ in the album.........................................................................12

Influence of George Orwell’s Animal Farm........................................................................13

Role of Production...............................................................................................................15

Significance of the cover art................................................................................................16

CONCLUSION........................................................................................................................18

BIBLIOGRAPHY....................................................................................................................19
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TITLE

A Critical Analysis on Pink Floyd’s Animals

INTRODUCTION

"Animals" is the tenth studio album by Pink Floyd, released in 1977. It is a concept album
that reflects on society and the human condition through the use of allegorical animals, with
each track representing a different type of creature. The album is known for its powerful and
thought-provoking lyrics, as well as its innovative musical arrangements.

From a musical perspective, "Animals" showcases Pink Floyd's signature sound, with
expansive soundscapes, intricate instrumentation, and memorable melodies. The album's
production is also noteworthy, with the use of sound effects and samples to create a dense,
atmospheric sound. The album's central theme of societal critique is further emphasized by its
cover art, which features a floating pig above Battersea Power Station in London.

Lyrically, the album is a commentary on the state of society in the 1970s, with each animal
representing a different facet of human behaviour. The album is often interpreted as a critique
of capitalist society and its effects on the working class, with tracks like "Dogs" and "Pigs
(Three Different Ones)" drawing attention to the exploitation of the working class and the
greed of those in power.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

 "Pink Floyd: The Story Behind Every Song" by Jean-Michel Guesdon and
Philippe Margotin
This book explores the origins and meaning of Pink Floyd's songs, including those on
"Animals". It provides valuable insights into the band's creative process and the
context in which the album was made.

 "Pink Floyd and Philosophy: Careful with that Axiom, Eugene!" edited by
George A. Reisch

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This collection of essays offers a philosophical analysis of Pink Floyd's music,

including "Animals". The book examines the themes and ideas in the album, and
explores the philosophical implications of Pink Floyd's work.
 "Pink Floyd: The Music and the Mystery" by Andy Mabbett
This book provides an in-depth analysis of Pink Floyd's music and the themes that run
through it. It includes a detailed discussion of "Animals", examining the album's
musical innovations and socio-political commentary.

 "Pink Floyd: In the Studio" by Glenn Povey

This book provides a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Pink Floyd's albums,
including "Animals". It includes interviews with band members and studio personnel,
and provides valuable insights into the band's creative process.
 "The Pink Floyd Encyclopedia" by Vernon Fitch
This comprehensive reference book provides detailed information on all aspects of
Pink Floyd's music and career, including "Animals". It includes biographical
information, analysis of albums and songs, and a wealth of other information for fans
and scholars alike.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Despite the critical acclaim and enduring popularity of Pink Floyd's "Animals" album, there
is still a need for deeper analysis of the album's socio-political commentary, use of allegory
and symbolism, musical and production innovations, and its impact on the progressive rock
genre and popular culture.

HYPOTHESIS

"Animals" by Pink Floyd is a significant work of music that uses socio-political commentary
and musical innovations to critique society and the human condition, and its enduring legacy
reflects its cultural significance.

OBJECTIVES OF STUDY

1. To identify the use of allegory and symbolism in "Animals" and to examine how they
contribute to the album's overall message and meaning.

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2. To critically analyze the socio-political commentary present in "Animals" and to

explore the implications of the album's critique of capitalism.
3. To examine the musical and lyrical innovations present in "Animals" and to determine
their impact on the album's atmosphere and meaning.
4. To conduct a critical analysis of the representation of animals in "Animals" and to
explore the symbolism and significance of these representations.
5. To investigate the extent of George Orwell's influence on the creation of "Animals"
and to identify the specific ways in which this influence is reflected in the album's
music and lyrics.
6. To evaluate the role of production in creating the atmospheric sound of "Animals"
and to determine how it contributes to the album's artistic and musical vision.
7. To conduct a semiotic analysis of the cover art of "Animals" and to explore its
contribution to the overall meaning and message of the album.
8. To examine the contribution of "Animals" to the legacy of progressive rock and to
determine its impact on the genre.
9. To investigate the reception and impact of "Animals" on popular culture and to
identify its cultural significance.
10. To explore how "Animals" reflects Pink Floyd's musical and artistic evolution and to
place the album in the broader context of the band's discography.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. How does Pink Floyd use allegory and symbolism in "Animals" to critique society
and the human condition?
2. In what ways does "Animals" provide a critique of capitalism, and what are the socio-
political implications of this critique?
3. What are the musical and lyrical innovations present in "Animals", and how do they
contribute to the overall atmosphere and meaning of the album?
4. How are animals represented in "Animals", and what do these representations signify
in the context of the album's themes and messages?
5. To what extent was George Orwell's "Animal Farm" an influence on the creation of
"Animals", and how is this influence manifested in the album's music and lyrics?
6. What role does production play in creating the atmospheric sound of "Animals", and
how does this contribute to the album's artistic and musical vision?

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7. What is the significance of the cover art of "Animals", and how does it contribute to
the overall meaning and message of the album?
8. How did the socio-political commentary in Pink Floyd's "Animals" reflect and
contribute to the cultural and political climate in Britain during the 1970s?

METHODOLOGY

This project has been made using the doctrinal method of research. Various primary sources
such as statutes and judgements as well as secondary sources like legal textbooks, journal
articles, and commentary articles were accessed to make this project. The information thus
collected was thoroughly studied and critically analysed.

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ANIMALS (1977)

Pink Floyd's "Animals" is a stunning masterpiece that deserves its place among the greatest
rock albums of all time. Released in 1977, "Animals" is a concept album that offers a searing
commentary on the state of society, the evils of capitalism, and the human condition, all set to
a backdrop of immersive and powerful music.

With its five sprawling tracks named after different types of animals, "Animals" is a tour-de-
force of rock music storytelling that uses allegory and symbolism to convey its messages.
The lyrics are potent, biting, and unapologetic, reflecting the tumultuous times in which the
album was created. They address themes such as the oppression of the working class, the
dangers of greed and materialism, and the search for meaning and connection in a world that
often feels cold and inhumane.

Musically, the album is a triumph, featuring some of the most iconic and memorable guitar
work in the history of rock music. David Gilmour's soaring solos and the band's use of
intricate sound effects create a soundscape that is immersive, atmospheric, and deeply
affecting. The album's heavy blues-inspired riffs and driving rhythms perfectly complement
the intensity of the lyrics, creating a cohesive whole that is both thought-provoking and
emotionally resonant.

The album's cover art, featuring a giant inflatable pig hovering over London's Battersea
Power Station, is one of the most iconic images in music history, capturing the rebellious
spirit of Pink Floyd and their message. The cover art serves as a visual representation of the
album's themes and has become synonymous with Pink Floyd's music and legacy.

Overall, "Animals" is a seminal work of art that stands the test of time. Its themes and
messages remain just as relevant today as they did when the album was first released over
four decades ago.

Allegory and Symbolism

"Animals" is a masterpiece of progressive rock that employs allegory and symbolism to

critique society and the human condition. By using animal archetypes to represent different
societal classes, Pink Floyd creates a scathing critique of capitalism and its inherent injustices

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and inequalities. In this essay, I will explore how Pink Floyd uses allegory and symbolism in
"Animals" to convey a powerful message about the flaws of capitalism and its effects on
individuals and society as a whole.

The first example of Pink Floyd's use of allegory and symbolism in "Animals" can be found
in the song "Dogs." The song features lyrics that describe businessmen as "stone-hearted
lovers of war" and "sharp as a razor" in their pursuit of profit. The use of the dog archetype
symbolizes their predatory behavior and willingness to tear others apart to achieve their
goals. The lyrics of "Dogs" also describe the cost of this behavior, noting that "you have to be
trusted by the people that you lie to, so that when they turn their backs on you, you'll get the
chance to put the knife in." This highlights the idea that those who are willing to do anything
to succeed may ultimately find themselves alone and without support.1

In "Pigs (Three Different Ones)," Pink Floyd satirizes the corruption and hypocrisy of the
ruling elite. The pigs in this song represent those who hold power and wealth, and the lyrics
mock their excesses and lack of empathy towards those beneath them. For example, the lyrics
describe one of the pigs as "haughty, arrogant and cruel," and another as "charming,
handsome and refined, but he'll murder you in time." This highlights the idea that those in
power may present a façade of respectability, but are ultimately motivated by their own self-
interest and willingness to exploit others.

Finally, "Sheep" portrays the working class as submissive and easily manipulated. The use of
the sheep archetype reflects their passive and herd-like behavior, as well as their vulnerability
to exploitation. The lyrics describe the sheep as "grazing on the grassy hillsides, leaving for
the factory gates," highlighting the idea that they are trapped in a cycle of work and
consumption, unable to break free from the constraints of capitalism. The song also suggests
that the sheep have the power to overthrow their oppressors, but lack the will to do so, with
the lyrics noting that "fearless on my breath, gentle impulsion shakes me, makes me lighter."
This suggests that the working class may have the potential to effect change, but need to find
the courage and conviction to do so.

Overall, Pink Floyd's use of allegory and symbolism in "Animals" is a powerful critique of
capitalism and its effects on individuals and society. Through their use of animal archetypes,
Pink Floyd creates a nuanced and layered critique that allows listeners to engage with the
music on multiple levels. The album invites us to consider the inherent flaws of capitalism,
and the ways in which it perpetuates inequality and injustice. In doing so, Pink Floyd has
1
Blake, Mark. "Comfortably Numb: The Inside Story of Pink Floyd." De Capo Press, 2008.

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created a work of art that remains as relevant and powerful today as it was over four decades
ago.

“Animals” as a critique of Capitalism

"Animals" is known for its powerful socio-political commentary on capitalism. The album's
three-part structure, which divides the songs into "Dogs," "Pigs," and "Sheep," presents a
scathing critique of the class structure and the power dynamics inherent in capitalist societies.
Through the use of allegory and symbolism, Pink Floyd effectively presents a complex and
multi-layered critique of capitalism, highlighting its negative impact on society and the
human condition.2

One of the most obvious ways in which "Animals" critiques capitalism is through its
depiction of the three animal classes. "Dogs" represents the wealthy and powerful elite, who
are portrayed as ruthless, greedy, and manipulative. The song describes them as "stone-
hearted lovers of war" who use their power and influence to control and exploit the rest of
society. In contrast, "Pigs" represents the corrupt politicians and business leaders who
collaborate with the elite to maintain their own wealth and power. They are depicted as
hypocrites who use their position to control and oppress the working class. Finally, "Sheep"
represents the working class, who are portrayed as passive and submissive, blindly accepting
their position as "fodder for the guns" and allowing themselves to be manipulated and
exploited by the elite.

Another way in which "Animals" critiques capitalism is through its lyrics, which highlight
the negative effects of the capitalist system on society and the human condition. In "Dogs,"
for example, the lyrics describe the brutal competition and constant struggle for power that
defines capitalist society. The song warns that those who participate in this system will
ultimately be consumed by it, becoming "cold as ice to the world outside." Similarly, "Pigs"
critiques the corruption and greed that are inherent in capitalist systems, describing the
politicians and business leaders as "fat and psychopathic wives" who are only interested in
their own wealth and power. Finally, "Sheep" critiques the passive acceptance of the working
class, who are depicted as mindless drones who have lost all sense of agency and self-
determination.3

2
Reising, Russell. "Speak to Me: The Legacy of Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon." Ashgate Publishing,
2005.
3
Strong, Martin. "The Great Rock Discography." Canongate Books, 2006.

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The socio-political implications of "Animals" are significant. By presenting a scathing

critique of capitalism, Pink Floyd is calling attention to the negative impact of this system on
society and the human condition. The album highlights the deep inequalities and power
imbalances that are inherent in capitalist societies, and raises important questions about the
ethics of wealth and power. It encourages listeners to question their own position in society
and to consider the ways in which they might be complicit in perpetuating the injustices of
capitalism.

"Animals" is a powerful and timely critique of capitalism. Through its use of allegory and
symbolism, the album presents a complex and multi-layered analysis of the negative impact
of capitalist systems on society and the human condition. By highlighting the inequalities and
power imbalances inherent in these systems, Pink Floyd encourages listeners to question their
own position in society and to consider the ways in which they might work to create a more
just and equitable world.

Musical and Lyrical Innovations

"Animals" is widely regarded as a musical masterpiece and a groundbreaking work in the

field of progressive rock. The album is known for its unique sound and atmosphere, which is
created through a combination of innovative musical techniques and rich, poetic lyrics. In this
essay, I will explore the musical and lyrical innovations present in "Animals" and analyze
how they contribute to the overall atmosphere and meaning of the album.4

One of the most striking aspects of "Animals" is its use of extended musical forms and
complex arrangements. The album's three main tracks - "Dogs", "Pigs (Three Different
Ones)", and "Sheep" - each run for over 10 minutes and feature multiple sections that shift in
tone, tempo, and mood. The songs are constructed using a variety of musical elements,
including intricate guitar riffs, melodic keyboard lines, and soaring vocal harmonies. The
result is a dense and immersive sonic landscape that draws the listener in and keeps them
engaged from start to finish.5

Another notable innovation in "Animals" is its use of electronic sound effects and studio
manipulation. The album features a variety of unconventional sounds, such as the distorted

4
Taylor, John. "Pink Floyd: The Visual Documentary." Omnibus Press, 1994.
5
Povey, Glenn. "Echoes: The Complete History of Pink Floyd." Mind Head Publishing, 2008.

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guitar tones in "Dogs" and the eerie vocal effects in "Sheep". These effects add to the album's
otherworldly atmosphere and create a sense of disorientation and unease. The studio
manipulation is also evident in the album's seamless transitions between tracks, which blend
together to create a cohesive whole.

Lyrically, "Animals" is a scathing critique of capitalism and the social and political systems
that uphold it. The album's animal metaphor - dogs representing the ruthless business elite,
pigs symbolizing the corrupt political class, and sheep standing in for the passive masses - is
a powerful and effective means of communicating the album's message. The lyrics are rich
with symbolism and allusion, drawing on literary and cultural references to create a complex
and multi-layered critique of society. For example, the song "Dogs" uses the metaphor of a
pack of hounds to describe the cutthroat business world, with lyrics such as "You have to be
trusted by the people that you lie to" and "You gotta keep one eye looking over your
shoulder".

The musical and lyrical innovations in "Animals" work together to create a powerful and
immersive critique of capitalism and the human condition. The album's extended musical
forms, complex arrangements, and electronic sound effects create a unique and otherworldly
atmosphere, while the richly symbolic lyrics offer a sharp and incisive commentary on
society. "Animals" remains a landmark work in the history of progressive rock, and its
influence can be heard in countless works of music that have followed in its wake.6

Significance of the ‘Animals’ in the album

"Animals" is known for its use of allegory and symbolism to critique society and the human
condition. One of the key aspects of the album is the way in which animals are represented
and what these representations signify in the context of the album's themes and messages.

As mentioned above the album is structured around three main animal archetypes: dogs, pigs,
and sheep. Each of these animals represents a different aspect of society, with dogs
representing the aggressive and power-hungry ruling class, pigs representing the greedy and
exploitative capitalist class, and sheep representing the passive and complacent masses. 7

6
Roe, Sue. "The Pink Floyd and Philosophy: Careful with that Axiom, Eugene!" Open Court Publishing, 2007.

7
Povey, Glenn. "Echoes: The Complete History of Pink Floyd." Mind Head Publishing, 2008.

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The use of these animal archetypes allows Pink Floyd to critique society in a way that is both
universal and specific. By using animals, they are able to speak to a broader audience and
make their message more accessible, while also highlighting the specific issues and problems
that exist within capitalist societies.

The representation of dogs as the ruling class is perhaps the most overt of the animal
archetypes. The lyrics in the song "Dogs" describe the ruthless and cutthroat nature of those
in power, with lines like "You have to be trusted by the people that you lie to / So that when
they turn their backs on you / You’ll get the chance to put the knife in." The use of dogs as the
representation of the ruling class also speaks to the idea of hierarchy and domination, with
dogs being known for their aggressive and dominant behaviour.8

Pigs, on the other hand, are represented as the capitalist class. In the song "Pigs (Three
Different Ones)", the lyrics describe the greed and excess of those in power, with lines like
"You radiate cold shafts of broken glass / You're nearly a good laugh / Almost worth a quick
grin." The use of pigs as the representation of the capitalist class also speaks to the idea of
exploitation, with pigs being known for their willingness to consume and exploit without
regard for others.

Finally, sheep are represented as the masses. In the song "Sheep", the lyrics describe the
passive and complacent nature of the masses, with lines like "Harmlessly passing your time
in the grassland away / Only dimly aware of a certain unease in the air." The use of sheep as
the representation of the masses also speaks to the idea of conformity and obedience, with
sheep being known for their tendency to follow the herd and not question authority.

The use of animal archetypes in "Animals" provides a powerful and thought-provoking

critique of capitalism and society as a whole. The representation of dogs, pigs, and sheep
speaks to the different aspects of society and the way in which they interact with and affect
each other. By using animals to represent these ideas, Pink Floyd is able to provide a
universal critique that is both accessible and specific to the issues facing capitalist societies.

Influence of George Orwell’s Animal Farm

8
Reising, Russell. "Speak to Me: The Legacy of Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon." Ashgate Publishing,
2005.

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One of the most significant influences on the creation of "Animals" was George Orwell's
1945 novel "Animal Farm". Orwell's allegorical story of a group of farm animals who
overthrow their human oppressors only to be betrayed by their own leaders provided a
powerful critique of totalitarianism and the corruption of power. Pink Floyd's album,
similarly, is a scathing critique of contemporary society, particularly the greed and
exploitation of capitalism. The album's themes of social criticism, political disillusionment,
and existential angst are expressed through its intricate music and lyrics, and its use of
allegory and symbolism has been the subject of much analysis and interpretation.9

The influence of "Animal Farm" on "Animals" can be seen in several ways. First and
foremost, the album's central conceit of dividing human beings into three classes--"Dogs",
"Pigs", and "Sheep"--is clearly derived from Orwell's animal characters. The "Dogs"
represent the ruthless and authoritarian ruling class, the "Pigs" are the manipulative and
hypocritical middle class, and the "Sheep" are the passive and obedient masses who are easily
led and exploited.

The album's lyrics also draw heavily on Orwell's themes of power and corruption. In "Dogs",
for example, the lyrics describe the "cut-throat rat race" of capitalist society and the way in
which the ruling class uses its power to exploit and control the masses. The song's extended
guitar solo, meanwhile, conveys the feeling of rage and rebellion that is at the heart of the
album's message.

Similarly, "Pigs (Three Different Ones)" is a scathing indictment of the middle class and its
complacency in the face of injustice. The song's lyrics describe the "lily-livered" hypocrisy of
those who claim to be on the side of the oppressed but who are really only interested in
maintaining their own privilege and status. The use of animal imagery in the song--the "Pigs"
are portrayed as "hogs" and "swine"--further emphasizes the dehumanizing effects of greed
and selfishness.

Overall, the influence of "Animal Farm" on "Animals" can be seen as a testament to the
enduring power of literature to inspire and inform art. Pink Floyd's use of allegory and
symbolism to critique society and human nature is a testament to the enduring relevance of
Orwell's themes and ideas.

9
Manning, Toby. "The Rough Guide to Pink Floyd." Rough Guides, 2006.

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Role of Production

"Animals" is renowned for its atmospheric sound that immerses the listener in a sonic
landscape that perfectly complements the album's themes and messages. While the band's
musicianship and song-writing skills are undoubtedly crucial to the album's success, the
production plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound of "Animals" and creating its
distinctive atmosphere.10

The album was produced by Pink Floyd themselves, with the help of engineer Brian
Humphries. The production process was conducted at the band's own studio, Britannia Row,
which gave them greater control over the recording and mixing process. The band's attention
to detail and commitment to experimentation is evident in the album's use of various
recording techniques and effects, such as the extensive use of synthesizers, sound effects, and
the incorporation of natural sounds like barking dogs and farmyard noises.

The production on "Animals" creates an immersive soundscape that perfectly captures the
album's themes of alienation, disillusionment, and societal critique. The use of sound effects
like barking dogs, sirens, and pig grunts in "Dogs" and "Pigs (Three Different Ones)" adds a
layer of visceral intensity to the tracks, enhancing the impact of the lyrics and reinforcing the
message of societal decay.

Similarly, the use of synthesizers and atmospheric sounds like the eerie ambient noises in
"Sheep" and the haunting wind and rain sounds in "Pigs on the Wing (Part 2)" creates an
immersive and evocative atmosphere that transports the listener to a dystopian world.

Furthermore, the production on "Animals" contributes to the album's overall musical and
artistic vision. The use of extended instrumental passages and the creation of dynamic shifts
between different sections of the songs create a sense of tension and release that amplifies the
emotional impact of the lyrics. The album's closer, "Pigs on the Wing (Part 2)", which
features acoustic guitar and delicate vocals, provides a stark contrast to the rest of the album
and brings a sense of closure to the listener.

The production on "Animals" plays a significant role in creating the album's atmospheric
sound and contributes to its overall musical and artistic vision. The band's commitment to
experimentation and attention to detail have resulted in an immersive sonic landscape that
perfectly complements the album's themes and messages. The production on "Animals" is a
10
Blake, Mark. "Comfortably Numb: The Inside Story of Pink Floyd." De Capo Press, 2008.

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testament to Pink Floyd's mastery of their craft and their ability to create a timeless piece of
music that continues to resonate with audiences today.11

Significance of the cover art

The cover art of Pink Floyd's "Animals" is a striking and memorable image, featuring a giant
inflatable pig floating above the iconic Battersea Power Station in London. While it may
seem like a simple and eye-catching design, a closer examination reveals a wealth of meaning
and significance that adds depth and nuance to the album's overall themes and messages.

The cover art was designed by the band's long-time collaborator, Storm Thorgerson, and his
design company, Hipgnosis. Thorgerson was known for his imaginative and often surreal
album covers, and "Animals" is no exception. The image of the pig floating above the power
station is a powerful and evocative metaphor for the album's critique of capitalism and the
power structures that underpin it.

At the heart of the cover art is the juxtaposition of the organic and the industrial. The pig, a
symbol of animal vitality and freedom, is set against the stark and imposing silhouette of the
power station, which represents the dehumanizing and oppressive forces of industry and
commerce. The pig is also a symbol of excess and decadence, representing the gluttony and
greed of the capitalist elite, who are depicted as pigs in the album's lyrics.

The choice of Battersea Power Station as the backdrop for the image is also significant. The
power station was a well-known landmark in London at the time, and its massive size and
imposing architecture made it a potent symbol of industrial power and progress. However, it
was also a source of pollution and environmental degradation, and its use of fossil fuels was
contributing to the global crisis of climate change. By placing the pig above the power
station, Thorgerson and the band were drawing attention to the destructive and unsustainable
nature of capitalist society and the urgent need for change.

The inflatable nature of the pig also adds to the symbolism of the cover art. Inflatable objects
are temporary and ephemeral, representing the fleeting nature of material wealth and
consumer culture. The pig's ability to float also represents the way that the capitalist elite are

11
Taylor, John. "Pink Floyd: The Visual Documentary." Omnibus Press, 1994.

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detached from the realities of the world and the suffering of the masses. They are free to float
above the chaos and misery that they have created, enjoying the fruits of their labour while
the rest of society struggles to survive.12

In addition to its symbolic meaning, the cover art of "Animals" is also a work of visual art in
its own right. The vivid colours and bold design make it a striking and memorable image,
while the use of perspective and scale creates a sense of drama and excitement. The image of
the pig floating above the power station has become an iconic image in popular culture, and
has been referenced and parodied in numerous contexts.

12
Povey, Glenn. "Echoes: The Complete History of Pink Floyd." Mind Head Publishing, 2008.

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CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Pink Floyd's Animals is a masterpiece of musical and artistic expression that
uses allegory and symbolism to critique society, capitalism, and the human condition.
Through the representation of animals, the album conveys a powerful message about the
flaws of modern civilization and the need for change. The innovative musical and lyrical
techniques employed by Pink Floyd, as well as the atmospheric sound produced by careful
attention to production, contribute to the overall artistic and musical vision of the album.

The significance of the cover art further reinforces the album's themes and messages, with its
powerful depiction of a pig flying over Battersea Power Station serving as a striking visual
metaphor for the critique of capitalism and the power structures that dominate society. The
album's impact on popular culture and its legacy within the realm of progressive rock are also
significant factors to consider.

As this critical analysis has shown, Pink Floyd's Animals is a complex and multi-layered
work of art that offers valuable insights into the socio-political issues of its time and remains
relevant today. Its continued popularity and influence are a testament to its enduring artistic
and cultural value, and its place as one of the most iconic and thought-provoking albums in
the history of music.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY

 Blake, Mark. "Comfortably Numb: The Inside Story of Pink Floyd." De Capo Press,
2008.
 Manning, Toby. "The Rough Guide to Pink Floyd." Rough Guides, 2006.
 Mabbett, Andy. "Pink Floyd: The Music and the Mystery." Omnibus Press, 2010.
 Povey, Glenn. "Echoes: The Complete History of Pink Floyd." Mind Head
Publishing, 2008.
 Reising, Russell. "Speak to Me: The Legacy of Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the
Moon." Ashgate Publishing, 2005.
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