Oh, Pretty Woman

Gary Moore's song "Oh, Pretty Woman" delves into the complexities of unrequited love and the superficiality of appearances. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who, despite her external beauty, remains emotionally distant and unattainable. The repeated refrain, "Can't make you love me, no matter what I do," underscores the singer's frustration and helplessness in the face of unreturned affection. This sentiment is further emphasized by the lines, "Says all your cheap paint and powder / Ain't gonna help you none," suggesting that true beauty lies beneath the surface, and no amount of makeup can mask a lack of genuine emotion or connection.

The song also touches on themes of self-deception and the futility of trying to win someone's love through superficial means. The lyrics, "So you might as well / Leave your skin alone," imply that the woman's efforts to enhance her appearance are ultimately pointless if her heart remains closed. The singer's plea for the woman to "drop your mess / And come down off your throne" highlights his desire for her to be authentic and vulnerable, rather than maintaining a facade of perfection.

In the latter part of the song, Moore warns the pretty woman that her superficial ways will eventually catch up with her. The lines, "But someday when you think / That you've got it made / You're gettin' water deep enough / So you can't wade," serve as a cautionary message that relying solely on looks and playing with others' emotions will lead to a downfall. The song's melancholic tone and repetitive chorus drive home the pain of loving someone who cannot or will not love you back, making "Oh, Pretty Woman" a poignant exploration of the heartache that comes with unreciprocated love.