Whip It

Whip It' by DEVO uses a metaphor of whipping cream to encourage overcoming challenges swiftly and efficiently.

Whip It,' one of DEVO's most iconic tracks, operates under a veil of playful metaphor mixed with a serious call to action. The repetitive chorus suggests an urgency to tackle problems effectively ('you must whip it') before they grow unmanageable ('before the cream sets out too long'). This can be seen as a broader metaphor for life's challenges where procrastination or hesitation can lead to more significant issues. The song's catchy beat and whimsical lyrics make it a fun, memorable piece, but beneath its surface, there lies a deeper encouragement to act decisively and maintain control over one's circumstances. The song also embodies the spirit of the early 80s post-punk/new wave scene, which often embraced quirky and unconventional approaches to both music and lyricism. DEVO's message in 'Whip It' aligns with their philosophy of de-evolution, suggesting that progression often involves proactive changes and adaptations rather than passive observation. The command to 'shape it up, get straight, go forward, move ahead' serves as a rallying cry for listeners to not only address their problems but to confront them with confidence and discipline.