Lady Jane

The Rolling Stones' song 'Lady Jane' is a baroque-influenced ballad from their 1966 album 'Aftermath.' The lyrics, penned by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, are a poetic ode to a noblewoman, Lady Jane, whom the singer addresses with deep affection and reverence. The song's narrative unfolds as a series of farewells to different women, suggesting a journey of love and commitment that culminates in a pledge to Lady Jane.

The use of historical names like Lady Jane and Lady Anne, and the formal language, evoke a bygone era of chivalry and courtly love. The singer's declaration of servitude and humility before Lady Jane, and the mention of 'bended knees' and 'pledged my troth,' are reminiscent of the customs of medieval knighthood and the high regard for noble women. The song's gentle, melodic acoustic instrumentation complements the lyrical theme, creating an atmosphere of romantic idealism.

While 'Lady Jane' can be interpreted as a romantic ballad, it also reflects the social norms and gender roles of the time it was written. The references to 'wedlock,' 'station,' and 'security' suggest the importance of marriage in securing one's social and economic status, a concept that was still prevalent in the 1960s. The song, therefore, can be seen as both a romantic narrative and a commentary on the societal expectations of love and marriage.