Meaning of Lola by Madness

In the vibrant and eclectic realm of music, there are few songs as enigmatic and intriguing as "Lola" by Madness. This timeless piece, released in 1979, explores the dynamic themes of identity, love, and societal norms in a manner that is catchy, thought-provoking, and endlessly captivating. Dive with me into this sonic journey as we unravel the hidden depths and unexpected themes within the lyrics of this iconic song.At first glance, "Lola" seems to be a playful and flirtatious encounter between the narrator and a captivating woman named Lola. Yet, beneath the surface lies a profound exploration of individuality and blurred boundaries. The song challenges traditional notions of gender and identity, pushing us to question societal constructs and our own perceptions.One of the standout lyrics that immediately catches our attention is, "But when she squeezed me tight, she nearly broke my spine." This seemingly innocent phrase actually points towards the immense power and strength that Lola embodies. It challenges the stereotypical gender roles by portraying Lola as a force to be reckoned with. This lyric suggests that strength and power are not solely reserved for men, but can be found in individuals, regardless of their gender.Another captivating line that expands on the theme of fluidity and the blurring of boundaries is, "Why she walked like a woman and talked like a man, Lola." This lyric delves into the complexity of identity and challenges the binary construct of gender. It urges us to question the limited expectations and assumptions society places on individuals based on their appearance or mannerisms. Furthermore, it reminds us that our true essence goes beyond mere external labels.In the verses that follow, the song takes a surprising turn as Lola professes her affection for the narrator and even embraces him, saying, "Little boy, won't you come home with me?" This unexpected twist further highlights the fluidity of not only gender but also sexuality. It encourages us to embrace the freedom of expressing our emotions and desires without fear of societal judgment or confined labels.Building on the fluidity theme, we encounter the intriguing line, "Girls will be boys and boys will be girls, It's a mixed up, muddled up, shook up world, except for Lola." Here, the song challenges the conventional ideas of gender and unveils a world where boundaries are blurred and gender becomes an amalgamation of possibilities. It celebrates the uniqueness and complexity of individuals, emphasizing that Lola's individuality stands apart from the "mixed up" world around her.Beyond the exploration of identity, "Lola" also invites us to reflect on the transformative power of love. Despite the unorthodox relationship depicted in the song, the narrator finds himself falling for Lola's charm and sincerity. The lyrics, "And I looked in her eyes, I almost fell for my Lola," suggest that love knows no bounds and transcends societal norms. It is a testament to the strength of emotions and connection that can exist beyond labels and expectations.As we delve deeper into the lyrics, we come across the line, "Little boy, I'm gonna make you a man." This particular lyric challenges the notion of masculinity and what it means to be a man. It highlights the transformative power of love and personal growth, suggesting that it is not external events or societal constructs that define one's masculinity or femininity, but rather an individual's own journey of self-discovery and acceptance.In essence, "Lola" is far more than just a catchy tune; it is a profound exploration of individuality, love, and societal norms. The song invites us to embrace fluidity, challenge traditional constructs, and celebrate the complexity of the human experience. It urges us to look beyond labels and expectations, encouraging a society where individuals are free to express their true selves without fear of judgment or restraint.So, next time you find yourself captivated by the infectious rhythm of "Lola," take a moment to appreciate the hidden depths within its lyrics. Allow yourself to be carried away by its unconventional melodies and profound themes. Let "Lola" be a reminder that we are all beautifully complex beings, deserving of the freedom to embrace our true selves in a world that often tries to confine us.