Meaning of "The Waggoner's Lad" by Bert Jansch

"The Waggoner's Lad" delves into the theme of societal expectations and the lack of autonomy women have in their own lives. The protagonist is a poor girl who is seemingly controlled by both her parents and the man she is courting. Despite the Wagoner's Lad's assertion of working for a living and having his own money, his departure at the end of the song suggests that ultimately, women are left at the mercy of the decisions made by the men in their lives. The cycle of control and confinement perpetuated by parents and husbands is a reflection of the societal norms and gender roles that limit women's freedom and agency. The repeated lines about the unfortunate fate of women underscore the pervasive nature of this issue. Overall, the song serves as a poignant commentary on the systemic oppressions faced by women in a patriarchal society.