Hard Headed Woman
Elvis Presley
The Timeless Battle of the Hard Headed Woman and the Soft Hearted Man
Elvis Presley's song "Hard Headed Woman" delves into the age-old dynamic between strong-willed women and their softer-hearted male counterparts. The lyrics paint a picture of this relationship as a source of perpetual conflict, tracing its roots back to the dawn of humanity. The song opens with a general statement about the trouble caused by this dynamic, suggesting that it has been a thorn in the side of men since the beginning of time.
The song then references well-known biblical and historical figures to illustrate its point. Adam and Eve are the first to be mentioned, with Adam warning Eve not to mess around with the apple tree, a clear nod to the story of original sin. This is followed by the tale of Samson and Delilah, where Samson warns Delilah to keep her hands off his hair, highlighting the betrayal that led to his downfall. The mention of a king and Jezebel further emphasizes the theme, as Jezebel is often depicted as a manipulative and destructive force in biblical stories.
Despite the troubles caused by these hard-headed women, the song also hints at a deep, underlying affection. The final verse reveals the singer's own experience with a strong-willed woman, admitting that he would be heartbroken if she ever left. This juxtaposition of conflict and affection suggests that while these relationships may be challenging, they are also deeply meaningful and integral to the human experience. Elvis's rock and roll style, combined with his charismatic delivery, adds a layer of intensity and passion to the song, making it a memorable exploration of this timeless theme.