Song meaning of Mrs. Rita by Richard Thompson

The song "Mrs. Rita" by Richard Thompson tells the story of women who are trapped in a life of poverty and struggle, working under the oppressive rule of Mrs. Rita. The lyrics convey a sense of desperation and resignation, as the protagonist acknowledges the difficult conditions they face but also reveals a cunning and rebellious spirit.

The first verse establishes Mrs. Rita's power and control over the women, keeping them trapped in a metaphorical hell. They daren't expose her to the outside world, perhaps out of fear or loyalty to their fellow girls. However, the next verse reveals a more nuanced relationship with Mrs. Rita. The narrator expresses gratitude and affection towards her, calling her kind and sincere. Mrs. Rita is depicted as a friend to strangers and a mother figure to the girls, which adds complexity to their situation.

The lyrics then delve into the reality of their work. The women engage in menial tasks like chalking, cutting, and stitching, earning just enough to barely escape being labelled as trash. They rely on Mrs. Rita's generosity and loose purse strings to make up for their pitiful pay. This highlights the economic disparity and exploitation that exists within their workplace.

The narrator expresses a longing for a better life, hoping for a guardian angel to sweep them away from this oppressive environment. Despite the hard work they put in every day, it seems the fruits of their labor only end up lining Mrs. Rita O'Connor's pockets.

The song suggests a sense of quiet rebellion amidst the struggles the women face. The mention of "helping yourself" by taking the occasional pair of nylons implies some form of resistance against the unfairness of their situation. It's a subtle act of defiance and a way to balance the scales.

In the end, the lyrics convey a mixture of admiration, resentment, and resignation towards Mrs. Rita. The women may be trapped in this cycle of poverty and exploitation but can appreciate the small gestures of kindness and support from their employer. The bittersweet tone of the song captures the complexities of their relationship and the difficult choices they must make to survive in their harsh reality.