Man Smart (Woman Smarter)

Harry Belafonte's song 'Man Smart (Woman Smarter)' is a playful yet insightful exploration of gender dynamics, highlighting the intelligence and cunning of women throughout history. The song humorously challenges the traditional notion that men are inherently smarter than women. Belafonte uses a series of anecdotes and historical references to illustrate his point, suggesting that women have always been the wiser sex, often outsmarting men in various situations.

The lyrics begin by proposing a hypothetical scenario where a man and a woman are put together to determine who is smarter. Belafonte quickly asserts that women are smarter, a sentiment echoed by 'the people.' He provides several examples to support his claim, including the biblical story of Samson and Delilah, where Delilah outwits the mighty Samson by discovering the secret of his strength. This story serves as a metaphor for the idea that women possess a different kind of intelligence, one that is often underestimated by men.

Belafonte also touches on everyday situations to further his argument. He describes a scenario where a man thinks he has a chance with a woman at a dance, only to find out she is already married. Another example involves a man discovering that the child he thought was his has blue eyes, indicating it is not his biological child. These stories, while humorous, underscore the theme that women are often more perceptive and strategic than men give them credit for.

The song also delves into historical and biblical references, such as the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Belafonte points out that it was Eve who convinced Adam to eat the forbidden fruit, leading to their expulsion from Paradise. This act is portrayed as a moment of cunning and influence, further emphasizing the song's central theme. Through these stories, Belafonte celebrates the intelligence and resourcefulness of women, making 'Man Smart (Woman Smarter)' a timeless anthem of female empowerment.