Oh, Pretty Woman
by Roy Orbison
What is “Oh, Pretty Woman” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “Oh, Pretty Woman” by Roy Orbison is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
Oh, Pretty Woman' captures a fleeting, intense moment of romantic desire and hope, as a man sees a captivating woman and yearns for her attention, only to face the possibility of rejection.
So… what’s this song really about?
Roy Orbison's 'Oh, Pretty Woman' is a vivid portrayal of a spontaneous romantic encounter that is marked by both longing and vulnerability. The narrator experiences a brief but intense moment of connection when he sees a woman who captivates him completely. As she walks away, his initial despair reveals a deeper longing and fear of loneliness, which is momentarily resolved when he sees her possibly returning, leaving the song on a hopeful note. This narrative is deeply human, tapping into the universal feelings of desire and the anxiety of unreciprocated affection. The open-ended conclusion of the story enhances its relatability, allowing listeners to fill in their own endings, which could swing between joyous or continued yearning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When was 'Oh, Pretty Woman' released?
'Oh, Pretty Woman' was released in August 1964.
Q: Did 'Oh, Pretty Woman' achieve any significant milestones?
Yes, the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and is considered one of Roy Orbison's signature songs.
Lyrics to “Oh, Pretty Woman”
35 ContributorsTranslations
[Verse 3]
Pretty woman, don't walk on by
Pretty woman, don't make me cry
Pretty woman, don't walk away, hey
[Outro]
Okay
If that's the way it must be, okay
I guess I'll go on home, it's late
There'll be tomorrow night, but wait
What do I see?
Is she walking back to me?
Yeah, she's walking back to me
Oh, oh, pretty woman