Meaning:
Shirley Manson, the lead singer of the band Garbage, made this statement in an interview with The Guardian in 2016. The quote reflects her observation of Starbucks employees and the apparent stress or pressure they experience while working. Manson empathizes with the workers, as she has been in similar situations herself.
The quote suggests that Starbucks is a significant part of Manson's routine, as she refers to it as her "main fix." This indicates that she relies on Starbucks for her daily coffee or perhaps a comforting routine. However, her focus in this statement is not on her own experience as a customer, but rather on the employees who work there.
Manson's use of the phrase "you people working in there" suggests a personal connection to the Starbucks employees. It indicates that she recognizes the individuals behind the counter and acknowledges the challenges they face. The use of the word "you" adds a sense of direct address, emphasizing her connection to the workers and their experiences.
The phrase "sometimes they're actually shaking" is particularly striking, as it conveys a sense of visible distress or anxiety among the employees. This description suggests that the demands of the job may be overwhelming, to the point where the workers are physically affected. Manson's use of the word "shaking" evokes a visceral image of the employees' stress, emphasizing the intensity of their experience.
Manson's empathy is evident in her statement as she expresses feeling "horrendous" when witnessing the employees' apparent distress. This emotional response highlights her sensitivity to the challenges faced by service industry workers. Her use of the word "horrendous" conveys a strong sense of discomfort or unease, indicating the depth of her emotional reaction to the situation.
The quote concludes with Manson's acknowledgment of her own experience in similar circumstances, stating, "because I've been in that situation." This admission further enhances her empathy, as she draws on her own past experiences to relate to the Starbucks employees. By sharing this personal connection, Manson underscores her understanding of the difficulties faced by workers in high-pressure environments.
Overall, Shirley Manson's quote offers a poignant reflection on the experiences of service industry workers, specifically those employed at Starbucks. Her empathy and recognition of the challenges faced by these employees provide a humanizing perspective on the often overlooked or undervalued work of frontline service staff. Manson's words serve as a reminder to consider the experiences of those working behind the counter, and the impact of their roles on their well-being.