Meaning of Son And Daughter by Queen

"Son And Daughter" by Queen is a song that explores the themes of gender roles, societal expectations, and the desire for personal freedom. The overall theme of the song can be seen as a reflection on the challenges and constraints individuals face when trying to fit into societal norms and expectations.The first standout lyric in the song is "Tried to be a son and daughter, rolled into one." This lyric suggests the struggle of trying to conform to both traditional gender roles, attempting to embody qualities traditionally associated with both masculinity and femininity. It portrays the idea that individuals often feel pressured to fit into predetermined roles based on their gender, which can ultimately lead to feelings of confusion and dissatisfaction.Another significant lyric in the song is "The world expects a man to buckle down and to shovel shit, what'll you do for loving when it's only just begun?" This line speaks to the societal expectations often placed on men to be strong, hardworking providers. It implies that individuals may sacrifice their personal desires and aspirations for the sake of conforming to societal standards. This lyric touches upon the theme of the sacrifices one makes for love, but also questions the validity of expectations and the price one pays for conformity.The lyric "Tried to be a teacher and a fisher of men, an equal people preacher, will you lead us all the same?" explores the concept of leadership and the desire for equality. It suggests that individuals who challenge societal norms are often seen as leaders or innovators, whether it be questioning traditional gender roles or advocating for equal rights. This lyric expresses the theme of breaking free from societal expectations and paving the way for change.Furthermore, the line "Watching the time, mustn't linger behind, pardon me, I have to get away, ooh, what'll you think of heaven if it's back from where you came?" presents the idea of self-discovery and the pursuit of personal happiness. It reflects the longing to break free from the confines of society's expectations and find fulfillment on one's own terms. The lyric prompts the listener to question the concept of heaven and whether it truly exists in conforming to societal norms or lies in the journey of self-discovery and individuality.In summary, "Son And Daughter" delves into the themes of gender roles, societal expectations, and personal freedom. It highlights the struggles and sacrifices individuals face in conforming to societal norms, while also challenging those norms and advocating for equality and personal fulfillment. The song encourages listeners to question societal expectations and embrace their own individuality and desires rather than conforming to a predetermined mold. It encourages self-discovery, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness on one's own terms, ultimately revealing the profound impact that societal expectations can have on individuals.