Meaning of "She's Always a Woman" by Billy Joel

"She's Always a Woman" by Billy Joel delves into the intricacies and contradictions of a complicated woman. The lyrics depict a woman who possesses a mesmerizing and magnetic presence, capable of both charming and causing harm. The opening lines, "She can kill with a smile, she can wound with her eyes," paint a vivid picture of her power to influence and manipulate. She is a master of deception, using casual lies to shatter the faith of others.

The woman in the song carefully controls what others see, concealing aspects of herself like a child, creating an air of mystery and intrigue. While she can lead someone to love, she is nonchalant about their feelings and can easily discard them. She craves honesty but remains skeptical of others, never fully believing what they say. As long as she can get something for free, she will take advantage of people, stealing from them without remorse.

The lyrics also highlight her independence and self-sufficiency. She takes care of herself, unafraid to wait or be ahead of her time. This woman possesses an unwavering sense of self, never giving in or giving out, exemplifying her unyielding nature. She has the freedom to change her mind at will, leaving others bewildered and confused.

The dynamic between the narrator and this enigma of a woman is both captivating and destructive. She promises grand things, likening them to the Garden of Eden, only to callously betray and hurt those who trust her. Despite the pain she inflicts, the narrator doesn't place blame solely on her; instead, he acknowledges his role in allowing her to continue her actions. He sees her as an enigmatic force, impossible to fully understand or control, yet always a woman who captivates him.

Overall, "She's Always a Woman" explores the complex nature of a woman who embodies both beauty and the ability to harm. Billy Joel delves into the contradictions of human nature and the power that one person can hold over another, even when they present themselves as innocent and unknowable.