The lyrics describe a barber and his wife in London. The barber adored his beautiful and virtuous wife, but a manipulative man removed the barber from the picture, leaving the wife vulnerable to his advances.

Meaning of "The Barber And His Wife" by Stephen Sondheim

"The Barber And His Wife" from the musical "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" by Stephen Sondheim explores themes of betrayal, manipulation, and the corrupt nature of society. The barber's wife represents innocence and beauty, while the manipulative man symbolizes the darker forces at play in the world. The lyrics highlight how easily people can be swayed by those in positions of power, leading to tragic consequences. The depiction of London as a pit filled with immoral individuals reflects a cynical view of society. Ultimately, the song serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of naivety and the harsh realities of the world.