Woman (feat. Lana Del Rey)

In 'Woman,' Cat Power, featuring Lana Del Rey, delivers a powerful anthem of self-empowerment and self-assertion. The song's lyrics revolve around the theme of independence and the strength of a woman's word. The opening lines, 'If I had a dime for every time / You tell me I'm not what you need,' set the tone for a narrative of resilience against doubt and dismissal. The metaphor of collecting coins and taking them to the bank symbolizes gathering strength and resources to move on from a situation where she is undervalued.

The song also delves into the idea of self-identity and the importance of being understood beyond superficial judgments. Lines like 'If you know people who know me / You might want them to speak' suggest that the narrator's true self is known to those who genuinely understand her, contrasting with the shallow perceptions of others. This theme is further emphasized with the repetition of 'I see you walkin' in circles,' indicating the confusion and lack of direction in those who fail to see her true worth.

A significant part of the song is the declaration, 'I'm a woman of my word / My word's the only thing I've ever needed.' This line underscores the narrator's integrity and the value she places on her promises and commitments. The song also touches on the misuse of power and control, with money and cages being used as metaphors for manipulation and confinement. However, the narrator flips these metaphors, asserting that she is not like 'the other ones' and that she can turn these tools of oppression into symbols of her strength and autonomy.

Overall, 'Woman' is a celebration of female strength, independence, and the unwavering power of one's word. It challenges societal norms and expectations, encouraging women to stand firm in their truth and value their own voices.