Song meaning of Isobel Goudie by The Sensational Alex Harvey Band

The song "Isobel Goudie" by The Sensational Alex Harvey Band is a complex and poetic exploration of the life of Isobel Goudie, a woman who defies societal expectations and engages in unconventional behavior. The lyrics convey a sense of rebellion and nonconformity, as Isobel is described as someone who "does not do the things she should."

The first part of the song introduces Isobel Goudie as a woman who feels empowered by her actions, despite going against societal norms. The encounter with a stranger at the fair suggests her openness to new experiences and her refusal to be bound by expectations. The repetitive chorus emphasizes her defiance, highlighting her refusal to conform.

The second part, titled "Coitus Interruptus," uses symbolic imagery to explore themes of temptation, mortality, and the consequences of indulgence. References to belladonna, holy water, and ashes to dust evoke a sense of sin and mortality, while "coitus interruptus" suggests a disruption of pleasure or satisfaction.

The song concludes with "Virgin and the Hunter," which portrays a scene of intimacy between two individuals, suggesting a union that defies conventions and embraces desire.

Overall, "Isobel Goudie" can be interpreted as a celebration of individualism and self-determination, highlighting the power and agency of a woman who chooses to deviate from societal expectations. The lyrics invite listeners to question societal norms and embrace their own uniqueness, ultimately conveying a message of empowerment and liberation.