Meaning of "Ruby Tuesday" by Franco Battiato

The lyrics of "Ruby Tuesday" convey a sense of freedom and the refusal to conform to societal expectations. The woman described in the song is characterized by her mysterious origin, as she never reveals where she came from. This emphasizes her enigmatic nature and reflects her desire to remain undefined and untethered. The song suggests that the passing of time, as represented by the line "Yesterday don't matter if it's gone," holds no significance to Ruby Tuesday and her way of living. She embraces change and rejects any notion of stability or predictability. The chorus, "Who could hang a name on you?" reflects her resistance to being labeled or confined. The lyrics also explore the idea that true freedom comes at a cost. While Ruby Tuesday may be living a life where "nothing's gained and nothing's lost," there is a sense of sacrifice and uncertainty attached to it. The line "Ain't life unkind" suggests that this way of life can be challenging and unforgiving. Despite this, the narrator admits that he will miss Ruby Tuesday, acknowledging the allure of her free-spiritedness even as it causes him to feel a sense of loss. The final verse serves as a reminder of the limited time we have to pursue our dreams before they slip away, underscoring the importance of embracing freedom and living fully in the present.