Another standout track with disturbing themes is “Government Hooker” from Gaga’s third studio album, “Artpop” (2013). On the surface, it appears to be a commentary on fame and the music industry, comparing it to sex work. However, a deeper analysis reveals it may also be exploring much heavier topics of oppression, loss of agency, and exploitation. Lines like “I’m a government hooker, a parasite in disguise” paint the picture of someone who has essentially sold their soul and individuality to “the man.” References to being an “experiment” and having one’s “wings clipped” portray a loss of freedom and autonomy. The repetition of “they control me” hints at being manipulated like a puppet. Overall, through its metaphor of sex work, “Government Hooker” seems to tackle disturbing themes of having one’s identity and free will stripped away by oppressive forces seeking to control and commodify.

Betrayal is another complex theme Gaga delves into on “Judas” from her album “Born This Way.” On the surface, it references the biblical story of Judas betraying Jesus, but the lyrics take on many layered meanings. Lines like “I’m just a holy fool, oh baby he’s so cruel” portray the singer as someone who keeps getting hurt yet can’t seem to let go of the source of the pain. The repetition of “after all this time you’re still my why” hints at an obsessive, self-sabotaging relationship one can’t escape from despite the harm. The song plays with Biblical imagery like kissing Judas to question notions of faith, forgiveness, and self-forgiveness. Overall, “Judas” uses the metaphor of a Biblical betrayal to explore deeper issues surrounding toxic relationships, self-sabotage, obsession, and the struggle to forgive both others and oneself.

While the above songs showcase some of Lady Gaga’s darkest lyrical themes, she explores other heavy topics throughout her discography as well. On “So Happy I Could Die” from “Joanne” (2016), she metaphorically portrays being so in love it feels like “dying” – hinting at the pain, obsession, and self-destruction that can come with intense passion. “A-Yo” from “The Fame” uses religious metaphor to depict a hedonistic party scene descending into a chaotic “hell.” “Black Jesus † Amen Fashion” from “Artpop” questions spirituality and faith through the lens of fame and celebrity culture. And “Sinner’s Prayer” from “Joanne” tackles themes of regret, redemption, and salvation in the aftermath of wrongdoing.