The True Meaning Behind “Pigs (Three Different Ones)” And Its Political Symbolism

March 20, 2025

In a quiet corner of London, a young musician named Roger Waters was deep in thought, scribbling notes and lyrics for what would become one of the most iconic songs in rock history. The year was 1977, and Waters, the co-founder of the band Pink Floyd, was grappling with the ideas of conformity and the struggles of society. His experiences growing up in a post-war England, coupled with the political turmoil of the time, fueled his creativity and pushed him to express his thoughts through music. Little did he know that his song, “Pigs (Three Different Ones),” would resonate far beyond its initial release.

The song was part of the concept album “Animals,” which used the metaphor of farm animals to represent different segments of society. Pigs, in particular, represented the corrupt and greedy figures in power, those who exploited and mistreated the vulnerable. As Waters wrote about the selfishness of the pigs, he poured his frustrations into each lyric, drawing from the stark realities he witnessed as a young man. The song’s powerful imagery challenged listeners to confront the uncomfortable truth about the ruling class and its impact on ordinary people’s lives. For Waters, this was more than just a song; it was a call to action.

With a heavy heart, Waters infused the song with raw emotion, and when it was released, it sparked conversations across the globe. Fans and critics alike praised the track for its boldness and insight. Yet, along with the acclaim came backlash. The political messages in Pink Floyd’s music made some uncomfortable, especially those in power who preferred silence. Despite the challenges, Waters refused to back down. Instead, he embraced the responsibility of being a voice for the voiceless, realizing that music had the ability to inspire change and unite people against injustice.

After the release of “Animals,” Waters faced more than just criticism; he wrestled with personal demons too. Tensions within the band grew as they attempted to balance artistic vision with commercial success. The pressure weighed heavily on him, but rather than succumb to despair, he leaned deeper into his passion for music. He found strength in the stories of the people who connected with his work. He received letters from fans who saw his songs as a beacon of hope, who felt understood, and who were inspired to stand up for their beliefs. This realization fueled his resilience as an artist.

As time passed, “Pigs (Three Different Ones)” became an anthem for activism, inspiring generations to challenge inequality and fight for justice. The song transcended its era, evolving with the changing tides of society. Waters understood that music could be a powerful tool for change, and he used it to bring awareness to the pressing issues of his time. He became a symbol of artistic integrity, courage, and the unwavering belief that one voice could make a difference.

Looking back on his journey, Roger Waters discovered that the true meaning behind “Pigs (Three Different Ones)” was not just about critiquing the powerful pigs, but about empowering those who felt powerless. Through his music, he learned that art could ignite passion, provoke thought, and inspire action. In every note, every lyric, and every performance, Waters continued to lift the banner of hope and resilience, reminding us all that even in the darkest times, we have the power to fight for a better world.