Meaning of Slave by The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones have always been known for their rebellious, gritty, and unapologetic rock and roll sound. One of their lesser-known tracks, 'Slave', from their 1986 album "Dirty Work", is no exception. The overall theme of the song seems to revolve around the desire for freedom, independence, and breaking free from societal expectations and constraints. As the lyrics suggest, the protagonist resents being controlled and confined by someone else.The song begins with a repetitious chorus of "Do it, do it" which immediately sets the tone for rebellion and defiance. These lines can be seen as a call to action, a refusal to submit to the demands of others. It represents the protagonist's determination to break free from the chains that bind them. The repetition emphasizes their unwavering resolve.The standout lyrics "Don't want to be your slave, 24 hours a day" serve as a direct rejection of being controlled or owned by another person. It highlights the desire for personal autonomy and self-expression. The lyrics express a longing for a life that is not dictated by someone else's whims or demands.As the song progresses, the protagonist daydreams about breaking away from the monotony of everyday life. The line "Hey, why don't you go down to the supermarket, get something to eat, steal something off the shelves, pass by the liquor store, be back by quarter to 12?" suggests a longing for adventure and a rebellion against societal norms. This lyric introduces a theme of escapism and the desire to break free from the mundane routine.Another significant line is "Got to go, got to go, got to go." Here, the urgency in the repetition conveys a sense of restlessness and dissatisfaction. It further amplifies the protagonist's longing for liberation and their determination to leave behind whatever or whoever is holding them back.The saxophone solo in the song adds an interesting layer of emotion. It could symbolize the protagonist's inner conflict, a battle between their desire for freedom and the restraints of their current situation. The haunting sound of the saxophone resonates with the listener, evoking a sense of melancholy and longing.Ultimately, 'Slave' explores the desire for liberation, independence, and the rejection of societal expectations. It delves into the yearning for personal autonomy and the longing to escape the mundane. Through its rebellious lyrics and powerful instrumentation, the song captures the essence of the human spirit's rejection of being controlled and the innate desire for freedom.As the lyrics suggest, being a slave, whether metaphorically or literally, to any person or thing limits one's potential to grow and express oneself freely. 'Slave' serves as a rallying cry for individuals to embrace their independence and refuse to be held captive by the expectations of others. It encourages listeners to break free from the chains that bind them and to embrace their true selves.Ultimately, 'Slave' is more than just a rock and roll song. Its lyrics resonate with listeners on a deeper level, evoking thoughts about personal autonomy, the pursuit of freedom, and the rejection of societal constraints. It reminds us to question the things that hold us back and inspires us to break free from our own metaphorical chains.