Pretty Little One

Steve Martin's song "Pretty Little One" tells a chilling story of a man who becomes infatuated with a young woman he meets at a picture show. The lyrics initially paint a picture of a typical romantic pursuit, with the man taking the woman out and trying to win her over. However, as the song progresses, it becomes clear that his intentions are far from noble. The man is portrayed as a predatory figure, using his charm and persistence to control and intimidate the woman, even going so far as to threaten her when she tries to leave him.

The narrative takes a dark turn when the man, feeling rejected and enraged, decides to take the woman on a final, ominous drive. The lyrics describe a tense and foreboding scene where the man reveals his true, violent nature by pulling out a knife and threatening to kill her. However, the woman, named Lucy Allencot, reveals her own preparedness and resilience by pulling out a pistol and ultimately defending herself by shooting the man. The song ends with a twist, as Lucy not only survives but also takes control of the narrative, writing and singing the song to tell her side of the story.

The song uses vivid imagery and a narrative style to explore themes of power, control, and retribution. The man's initial confidence and bravado are ultimately his downfall, as he underestimates Lucy's strength and resourcefulness. The song also touches on the idea of appearances being deceiving, as the man initially sees Lucy as a "pretty little one" who can be easily manipulated, only to find out that she is far more capable and determined than he ever imagined. The dark, almost cinematic quality of the lyrics, combined with the unexpected twist, makes "Pretty Little One" a compelling and thought-provoking piece.