Meaning of "Good Girl" by The Go-Go's

The lyrics of "Good Girl" delve into the pressure to conform to societal standards and expectations, especially for women. The narrator describes the lengths they are willing to go to be perceived as a good girl, expressing a desire for universal love and acceptance. The repetition of phrases like "good girl, good girl" and "good dog, good girl" reinforces the idea of obedience and compliance, reflecting the expectations placed on individuals to fit a certain mold. The mention of smiling until it hurts and swallowing anger highlights the sacrifice of personal emotions for external validation. The plea for love through getting down on knees and saying "pretty please" underscores the desperation for approval. Ultimately, the lyrics shed light on the internal struggle between wanting to be true to oneself and seeking societal approval at the cost of personal authenticity.