Jezebel

Sade's song 'Jezebel' tells the story of a woman who, despite not being born into privilege, possesses a fierce determination to succeed. The lyrics paint a picture of Jezebel as someone who has faced adversity from the start, 'probably had less than every one of us,' but has an innate ability to captivate and 'bring the house down.' The song is a narrative of her resilience and ambition, as she strives to rise above her circumstances and claim what she believes is rightfully hers.

The character of Jezebel is portrayed with a mix of admiration and caution. While her beauty and success are undeniable, there's an underlying sense that her path to the top may have come at a cost. The repeated lines 'Reach for the top, and the sun is gonna shine' suggest a relentless pursuit of success, while 'Every winter was a war she said, I want to get what's mine' implies a struggle and a fight for survival and recognition. The song seems to celebrate Jezebel's strength and determination while also hinting at the potential loneliness of such a journey.

Culturally, the name 'Jezebel' carries connotations of a seductive, scheming woman, stemming from the biblical Queen Jezebel. However, Sade's song reimagines this figure as a modern woman, battling societal expectations and limitations. The song's message resonates with themes of empowerment, the complexity of female identity, and the pursuit of personal goals against all odds. It's a story of claiming one's space in the world, despite where one comes from, and doing so with unapologetic pride.