The existence of multiple sects in almost every religion can be seen as an example of this phenomenon. I believe that this video demonstrates the ‘supermarket effect’ of a postmodern society with regards to religion, as people are able to pick and choose their truths and beliefs within their own religion. Simultaneously she has also put forward a “truth” (read: worldview) of American popular culture by incorporating universally revered pop culture icons like Elvis Presley and Marylin Monroe, as well as her own personal “truth” that is an amalgam of religion and pop culture, as is for many others.

Del Rey has put up one such version of the “truth” of Christianity regarding the story of Adam and Eve.

Paul Heelas in “Religion, Modernity and Postmodernity” (1998) states that postmodern religion allows for the existence of multiple truths. Further evidence is given to this point as we hear recitations of Walt Whitman’s poetry, which often pops up in Del Rey’s music.

Del Rey has not just put up a worldview that is culturally in tune with America pop culture, but one that she herself holds (as she has stated in interviews). Deeper down I see it as a postmodern analysis of religion. On the surface, Tropico is Del Rey’s portrayal of America pop culture as a religion.

Tropico lyrics lana del rey