Meaning of Strays - Margo Price
Margo Price's song "Strays" offers a profound narrative exploring resilience and defiance amidst adversity, delving into themes of youthful rebellion, love, and the relentless pursuit of freedom. The lyrics paint a rich tapestry of a frigid Nashville November, evoking a palpable sense of desolation interwoven with nostalgia for days gone by. Price fondly reminisces about a winter in January 2003, a chapter marked by youthful zeal and unwavering ambition, where she and her partner traversed life's terrain with unwavering determination and audacity.
Throughout the composition, Price intricately weaves reflections on the challenges and victories encountered along their journey, encapsulating a spirit of defiance in the face of societal norms and expectations. Lines such as "Oh, everybody said we were wasting our time" serve as poignant reminders of the skepticism they encountered from others, yet their resolve to carve out a non-conventional existence remained resolute. The mention of "cooking on a line" alludes to the arduous trials they endured while toiling in menial occupations, underscoring their relentless pursuit of survival and self-sufficiency.
The song delves into the intoxicating whirlwind of youthful love, characterized by fervor and recklessness. Price fondly recalls the spontaneity of their connection, recounting a night of drunken revelry and intimacy, emblematic of the unfiltered intensity of their bond. The juxtaposition of "love and pain" serves as a poignant reminder of the tumultuous nature of their relationship, yet it served as an anchor through the tempestuous early days.
Amidst the adversities they encountered, Price and her partner sought refuge in each other's embrace, embracing their identity as outliers and free spirits. The metaphor of being "wild as wolves" and "strays" conveys a profound sense of liberation and defiance, underscoring their refusal to conform to societal dictates. Despite their modest material possessions, they found abundance in their shared experiences and the liberty to chart their own course.
The song exalts their resilience and unwavering commitment to crafting a life unencumbered by the shackles of mainstream expectations. Price asserts that they "didn't buy in to sell out," opting instead to forge their own path and seize opportunities as they arose. Their decision to "get out while we can" embodies a yearning to escape the confines of conformity and embrace the allure of the unknown, embarking on a journey fueled by audacity and self-determination.
In summation, "Strays" by Margo Price stands as a poignant tribute to the indomitable human spirit and the transformative potency of love and rebellion. With its evocative lyrics and haunting melody, the song serves as a poignant testament to the essence of youthful defiance and the relentless quest for freedom amidst adversity. Price's narrative serves as a testament to the enduring power of resilience and the courage to defy societal expectations in pursuit of an authentic existence.
