Have you ever thought about what makes a pop song tick? This week, Scott, Karl, and Trent analyze the lyrics in some of the biggest pop hits from different eras of American music. The trio discusses the various levels a pop song can operate on. Trent says, "There are songs that have a subtext to them that belies their exterior... Pop songs can connect with people in a very immediate and visceral way, but can also open them up to the whole human experience." Has pop music lyrics moved from submissive to obvious and banal? Tune in to more music and ideas, brought to you by onlinegreatbooks.com.