Meaning of "It's Different for Girls" by Joe Jackson

"It's Different for Girls" delves into the unequal treatment and double standards faced by women in relationships. The song begins with the narrator expressing frustration and confusion about not being able to please his partner, implying that he feels ignorant about what she desires. The partner responds by asserting that it is different for girls and that love is not the same for them as it is for men. This suggests that societal and cultural expectations often place unfair burdens on women, expecting them to conform to certain roles and standards. The line "Don't we all want the same thing" highlights the irony of the situation, as women are often taught to want love and companionship, but they are also aware of the unique challenges they face. The repeated refrain "You're all the same" points to the narrator's understanding that men tend to have similar expectations, while the partner stands out as different. The song also touches on the idea of women being encouraged to save themselves for the right person, but this logical advice can lead to confusion and frustration. By emphasizing that it's different for girls, the lyrics shed light on the sexism and inequality embedded in societal norms and expectations surrounding relationships.