Song meaning of Glycerine Queen by Suzi Quatro

The lyrics of "Glycerine Queen" by Suzi Quatro portray the story of a woman who is trapped in a life of desperation and deceit. The protagonist is presented as someone who was born into a world filled with false promises and aspirations, symbolized by the "fifty-dollar dream" and the "tailor-made coat with a straight back seam." She is unable to resist the allure of the "twilight life of a queen" and seeks validation and significance through shady activities.

The lyrics suggest that the protagonist is constantly fighting and struggling to achieve success and recognition, as depicted by the line "Glycerine Queen fightin' hard to win." She is referred to as the "Glycerine Queen," a term that could potentially signify her fragility and vulnerability in the face of her harsh circumstances.

However, the song also acknowledges the consequences of the protagonist's actions. It implies that her destructive lifestyle and shady past will eventually catch up to her, hinting at a potential downfall or incarceration with the line "Spend a few years in a padded room." The lyrics suggest that the protagonist's life is filled with regrets and a constant longing to escape her troubled past, as symbolized by the "book full of blues, bad memories to pass the time."

The repeated question, "What's the matter, Queenie, won't they let you in?" suggests that the protagonist struggles to fit into society or gain acceptance due to her past actions. The final line, "We all laughed at the Glycerine Queen," highlights the judgment and ridicule she faces from others.

Overall, "Glycerine Queen" conveys a message about the repercussions of living a life of deception and the difficulties of finding redemption and acceptance in society. It serves as a commentary on the dangers of seeking validation and significance through illicit means, reminding listeners of the need for genuine connections and a life of integrity.