Song meaning of Beautiful Son by Hole

The lyrics of "Beautiful Son" by Hole convey a complex and emotional message. The song seems to explore themes of identity, gender expression, and a troubled relationship between a mother and her son. 

In the first verse, the speaker acknowledges that the son looks good in her clothes and implies that he has created a mess. This can be interpreted as the son challenging traditional gender norms and expressing himself freely, even if it causes chaos or discomfort for others. The lyrics suggest that the son's gender expression may challenge societal expectations, as hinted by the line "I can feel where the doctor goes," which may imply the son's non-conforming body.

The chorus repeats the phrase "My beautiful son," which may indicate the conflicting feelings the mother has towards her child. It could represent a mix of admiration and acceptance, coupled with the struggles that come with embracing individuality. The post-chorus line "Yeah, I know" suggests that the mother is aware of the challenges her son faces in a world that may not understand or accept his expression.

The second verse emphasizes the son's unconventional appearance, mentioning "ribbons in his hair" and "lipstick was everywhere." Again, these lines highlight the son's defiance of societal expectations and their exploration of their own identity.

The bridge contains the lines "You're barren, Like me," suggesting that the mother sees aspects of her own struggles in her son's expression. This could refer to emotional or creative barrenness, feeling unable to conform to societal norms, or struggling with their own identity. The repetition of "Yeah, I know" adds a sense of understanding and empathy between the characters.

Overall, "Beautiful Son" portrays a complex emotional relationship between a mother and her non-conforming son. It touches upon themes of acceptance, identity, and the challenges faced when stepping outside societal norms. The lyrics elicit a sense of empathy and understanding for those who defy expectations while highlighting the complexity of familial relationships when personal expression is involved.