All Tomorrow's Parties

The Velvet Underground's 'All Tomorrow's Parties' is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into themes of despair, societal expectations, and the cyclical nature of life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a 'poor girl' who is trapped in a cycle of wearing hand-me-down dresses to various social events, symbolizing her perpetual state of poverty and lack of agency. The repeated question, 'And what costume shall the poor girl wear to all tomorrow's parties?' underscores her ongoing struggle to fit into a world that constantly judges her based on her appearance and social status.

The song's imagery is rich with metaphors. The 'hand-me-down dress' and 'yesterday's gowns' represent not just physical garments but also the burdens and expectations passed down through generations. The 'poor girl' is a poignant figure who turns to 'Sunday's clown' and cries behind closed doors, highlighting her inner turmoil and the facade she must maintain in public. The reference to 'Thursday's child' being 'Sunday's clown' suggests a predestined fate of sorrow and mockery, further emphasizing the inescapable cycle of her life.

Musically, The Velvet Underground's minimalist yet evocative style complements the song's somber tone. The repetitive structure of the lyrics mirrors the repetitive nature of the girl's life, creating a sense of inevitability and resignation. The 'blackened shroud' and 'rags and silks' in the final verse serve as a stark contrast, symbolizing the duality of her existence—caught between the allure of societal acceptance and the harsh reality of her circumstances. 'All Tomorrow's Parties' is a poignant reflection on the human condition, exploring themes of identity, societal pressure, and the often unseen struggles of those on the margins.