Meaning of "What It Feels Like for a Girl" by Madonna

Madonna's "What It Feels Like for a Girl" delves into the gender disparities and societal pressures faced by girls, emphasizing the unfairness of the double standards imposed by society. The lyrics draw attention to the freedom girls have to adopt more traditionally masculine characteristics, such as wearing jeans and having short hair, without facing judgment. On the contrary, if a boy were to express feminine traits or resemble a girl, it is seen as degrading. This highlights the societal belief that being a girl is somehow inferior.

Madonna questions why boys perceive being a girl as degrading, while secretly being curious about the experiences and feelings that girls go through. The song suggests that boys, despite their judgment, are fascinated by the inner world of girls and are envious of their ability to freely express themselves emotionally. The lyrics also address the pressures placed on girls to conform to societal expectations of femininity, portraying them as "good little girls" who suppress their true strength and emotions. The idea of girls having to hide their hurt and tears, pretending to be unaffected, emphasizes the emotional toll these societal expectations can have on young women.

Through her lyrics, Madonna encourages listeners to reflect on the experiences of girls in a world that puts limitations on their actions, emotions, and self-expression. The song aims to shed light on the hypocrisy of the double standards that exist and the potential emotional toll they can have on girls. It challenges the audience to consider the complex emotions and struggles girls face in a society that often undervalues their experiences and emotional depth.