Meaning of Poor Cow by Elton John

In Elton John's emotionally charged song, "Poor Cow," he delves into the struggles faced by a working-class couple. The song's overarching theme revolves around the challenges and sacrifices made by ordinary people trying to make ends meet. Through evocative lyrics, John skillfully explores various sub-themes that contribute to a powerful portrayal of the characters' lives.One standout lyric in the song is, "There's another one due in three month's time." This line highlights the impact of family planning decisions on the couple's financial situation. It brings to attention the theme of economic pressure intertwined with the joys and difficulties of starting a family. The struggles and worries that follow, such as the need to paint the spare room blue and working extra hours, reflect the lengths they must go to in order to provide for their child.Another poignant lyric that John weaves into the song is, "And mother drops by Mondays, just to nag about the world, then she stays to nag at Dallas because she hates those Texas girls." This line explores the influence of family and societal expectations on the protagonist, adding depth to the theme of external pressures. It implies that the mother's nagging and disapproval add an extra layer of stress to their already challenging lives. Furthermore, the mention of Dallas and the dislike towards Texas girls introduces a regional bias, touching upon the notion of prejudice and how it can affect relationships.The powerful refrain, "Poor cow, you'll get your dumb man, you'll see your whole life coming at you in the back of his hand," exposes a distressing reality of the couple's relationship. This lyric unravels a theme of domestic abuse that lurks beneath the surface. It sheds light on the hardships faced by the protagonist, offering a glimpse into a darker side of their lives. The use of a metaphor, referring to the woman as a "cow," juxtaposes her vulnerability with the insensitivity and aggression of her partner.Exploring further, the line, "Oh them rich bitch girls ain't like our lass, got no spine for labour like us working class," introduces a theme of social class disparity. The stark contrast between the upper-class "rich bitch girls" and the working-class protagonist highlights the struggles faced by those from different economic backgrounds. It speaks to the inherent resilience and pride of the working class, implying that they possess inner strength and determination in the face of adversity.Through his masterful storytelling, Elton John crafts a multi-dimensional narrative in "Poor Cow." While the song's overall theme centers around the struggles of a working-class couple, the various standout lyrics explore unexpected and imaginative sub-themes. From family planning decisions to societal expectations, domestic abuse to social class disparity, each lyric adds layers of complexity to the characters' lives. Ultimately, the song serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by everyday individuals and their unwavering resolve in the face of hardship.