Meaning of Roxanne ’97 by The Police

In the world of music, certain songs manage to capture our attention and resonate with us on a profound level. One such song is 'Roxanne '97' by The Police. Released in 1997, this song is a reimagining of their iconic hit 'Roxanne' from 1978, but with a fresh twist. While the original song focused on a man's plea for a prostitute named Roxanne to leave her occupation, 'Roxanne '97' takes a different approach. It encourages Roxanne to break free from the societal expectations placed upon her and embrace her own path. As we delve into the standout lyrics of this song, we will uncover unexpected and imaginative themes that all tie back to the overarching theme of liberation.The opening lines, "You don't have to put on the red light, those days are over," immediately grab our attention and set the tone for the song. Here, we witness a departure from the original message of the song. Instead of criticizing Roxanne's profession, Sting, the lead vocalist, delivers a powerful message of empowerment. He encourages her to let go of the red light, metaphorically representing her past life, and embrace a new chapter where she doesn't have to sell her body to the night. This theme of liberation and breaking free from societal constraints becomes a recurring motif throughout the song."You don't have to wear that dress tonight, walk the streets for money, you don't care if it's wrong or if it's right." These lyrics underline the freedom Roxanne possesses in choosing her path. Society's judgments and expectations surround her, but she remains unbothered. This particular theme highlights the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity. Roxanne's defiance of societal norms prompts us to question our own shackles and encourages us to break free from the societal pressures that often hinder our personal growth.Another standout lyric that deserves attention is, "I loved you since I knew you, I wouldn't talk down to you, I have to tell you just how I feel, I won't share you with another boy." These lines delve into the theme of emotional vulnerability and the significance of expressing one's feelings. Sting's declaration of love for Roxanne, regardless of her chosen occupation, emphasizes the importance of seeing beyond societal labels and embracing the complexity and depth of human connection. It inspires us to champion open communication and defy the limitations that society imposes on relationships."I know my mind is made up, so put away your makeup, told you once I won't tell you again, it's a bad way." This lyric reflects the idea of self-empowerment and determination. Roxanne's journey is one of self-discovery and asserting her independence. Sting urges her to put away her makeup, symbolizing the masks we wear to conform to societal expectations, and embrace her true self. By telling her that he won't tell her again, he demonstrates his belief in her ability to make her own choices. This theme encourages us to reflect on our own lives and question the masks we wear, urging us to find the strength to shed them and live authentically.As we reach the climactic chorus, the repetition of "Roxanne, put on the red light" creates a powerful musical motif that serves as a reminder of the societal expectations Roxanne faces. However, with each repetition, it also reinforces the message of liberation and empowerment. Sting's insistence on repeating this phrase may initially seem contradictory to the song's overall theme, but it cleverly challenges our preconceived notions and forces us to confront the complexities of human existence. In this context, the repetition becomes a call to action, urging us to challenge societal norms and push for change.In conclusion, 'Roxanne '97' by The Police goes beyond the constraints of its predecessor and offers a thought-provoking exploration of themes such as liberation, self-acceptance, emotional vulnerability, and defying societal expectations. Through imaginative and unexpected lyrics, the song paints a vivid picture of Roxanne's journey towards self-empowerment and challenges us to reflect on our own lives. It serves as a reminder that we, too, can break free from the confines of society and embrace our true selves. So, let us learn from Roxanne's story and find the courage to put away our own red lights.