Born a Beggar

Skid Row's 'Born a Beggar' delves into the depths of emotional dependency and the feeling of being trapped in a one-sided relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels chained to their circumstances, unable to break free from the hold of someone they deeply care about. The metaphor of being 'born a beggar' suggests a sense of inherent neediness and desperation, as if the protagonist was destined to live in a state of longing and unfulfilled desire.

The song employs powerful imagery and metaphors to convey the protagonist's plight. The reference to Pavlov's dog, a classic psychological experiment where a dog is conditioned to associate a bell with food, highlights the protagonist's conditioned response to their lover's presence. They are depicted as waiting by the window, time losing its meaning, just to catch a glimpse of the person they are so dependent on. This metaphor underscores the idea of being trapped in a cycle of hope and disappointment, always waiting for the next moment of validation or affection.

The lyrics also explore the theme of isolation and the feeling of being caged within one's own emotions. The protagonist describes their surroundings as lifeless and confining, with the only thing breaking the monotony being the sound of their lover's footsteps. This sense of entrapment is further emphasized by the repeated lines about watching the window and the feeling that life only exists within the confines of their emotional prison. The song captures the essence of a love that is all-consuming and ultimately unfulfilling, leaving the protagonist in a perpetual state of yearning and dependency.