Meaning of "Cactus Tree" by Judy Collins

"Cactus Tree" delves into the theme of independence and the desire for freedom. The protagonist of the song, portrayed as a woman constantly on the move, is pursued by different men who love her but struggle to hold onto her. She values her freedom above all else and is wary of being tied down by anyone. Each man represents a different aspect of life: the sailor represents adventure, the mountaineer symbolizes ambition, and the businessman signifies stability. The lady in the city is overwhelmed by attention from various suitors but remains detached, valuing her autonomy over romantic relationships. The cactus tree serves as a metaphor for the woman, prickly on the outside to protect her independence but also hollow on the inside, longing for deeper connections. The lyrics suggest that the pursuit of freedom can sometimes leave a person feeling empty and disconnected, as they struggle to balance independence with the desire for love and connection.