Sally's Pigeons

Cyndi Lauper's song 'Sally's Pigeons' is a poignant reflection on the innocence of childhood and the harsh realities that often shatter it. The song begins with a nostalgic recollection of a childhood friend, characterized by her 'pirate smile,' and the carefree days they spent together. The imagery of pigeons flying freely in the sky serves as a metaphor for the unbounded freedom and innocence they once enjoyed. This period of their lives is marked by simple joys and a sense of limitless possibilities, symbolized by the pigeons' flight.

As the song progresses, it delves into the inevitable transition from childhood to adolescence and the accompanying loss of innocence. The narrator's friend, Sally, faces an unexpected and life-altering situation, hinted at by the line 'In tears she told me she was late.' This moment signifies a turning point, where the carefree days of childhood give way to the complexities and responsibilities of adulthood. The pigeons, once a symbol of freedom, now represent the lost innocence and the dreams that have been grounded by harsh realities.

The final verses of the song are filled with a sense of longing and melancholy. The narrator reflects on the passage of time, with a photograph of 'two little girls in ponytails' serving as a poignant reminder of the past. Sally's departure and the narrator's inability to remember the last time a 'pirate smile' didn't bring tears highlight the enduring impact of lost innocence. The recurring imagery of Sally's pigeons flying serves as a bittersweet reminder of the fleeting nature of youth and the inevitable changes that come with growing up.