Master Of The Universe
Pulp · Freaks [1987]
And I've got so big it hurts
Raise your eyes and graze your knees
Before your master is displeased
Because you dared to doubt his words
His polished surface dulls and cracks
Your bitter laughter breaks his back
I am the master of this universe
I taught you everything you know
Now you must bear your master's curse
Oh, for I will not let you go
Now you must walk this town 'til dawn
In every public open place
Your masters look upon your face
Oh, now look what you have done
You've spoilt it all for everyone
The master masturbates alone
In a corner of your home
You feed him scraps when in the mood
You beat him hard and keep him nude
You've cut your master down to size
Now he cries and he cries now
La la la la la
And now he begs both night and day
He lets you take him on your knee
He comes on losing consciousness
He dearly loves his new mistress
Now he repeats it every night
Every night on point of death:
"You are the master of this universe"
Now he cries and he cries now:
"You are the master of the universe
You are the master of the universe
You are the master of the universe
You are the master of the universe"
Master Of The Universe - Pulp
Released on Pulp's debut album Freaks, 'Master Of The Universe' stands as a defining track of the Britpop era, blending jangly guitar riffs with the band's signature melodic sensibility. The song captures the restless energy of late 1980s British pop, featuring a driving rhythm section that propels the narrative forward without relying on heavy distortion. As one of the group's most recognizable compositions, it showcases the collaborative songwriting prowess of Jarvis Cocker and Jonny Buckland, establishing themes of ambition and identity that would recur throughout their discography. The recording serves as a quintessential example of the genre's shift toward more polished, radio-friendly production while maintaining a raw, youthful spirit. Its enduring popularity highlights Pulp's ability to craft anthems that resonate across generations, cementing their place in the history of modern rock and alternative music.