Meaning of "Adelaide's Lament" by Barbra Streisand

"Adelaide's Lament" by Barbra Streisand highlights the societal pressure on women to marry and how this expectation can negatively impact their mental and physical health. The song humorously depicts how the fear of remaining single and the uncertainty about one's relationship status can lead to psychosomatic symptoms, such as developing colds and coughs. By associating specific physical symptoms with emotional states related to marriage and relationships, the lyrics emphasize how the mind and body are interconnected. The reference to various medical treatments like shots and vitamins underscores the futile attempts to address underlying emotional issues with superficial solutions. Ultimately, the song points out how societal norms and expectations can create unnecessary stress and impact women's well-being, both mentally and physically.