This Woman's Work - 2018 Remaster

The song dives deep into the complexity of emotions during a moment of crisis. It’s about the struggle to cope with the reality of life and death. There’s a sense of urgency in the lyrics, as if the speaker wants to hold onto every moment, but also feels overwhelmed by what’s happening. It paints a vivid picture of sorrow, love, and the things left unsaid.

Verse 1

Pray God you can cope
I stand outside this woman's work
This woman's world
Ooh, it's hard on the man
Now his part is over
Now starts the craft of the father

In this opening verse, Bush sets the stage for an emotional journey. The plea to God hints at desperation and a need for strength. By stating “this woman’s work,” she emphasizes the heavy burden of motherhood and caregiving. The acknowledgment of a man's role ending suggests a shift in dynamics, highlighting the transition to a new reality where the woman must carry the weight of what’s happening.

Chorus

I know you have a little life in you yet
I know you have a lot of strength left
I know you have a little life in you yet
I know you have a lot of strength left

The chorus is a powerful affirmation of hope. The repetition of “you have a little life in you” speaks to resilience and the belief that there’s still time for healing or connection. It’s almost like a mantra, urging the listener (or the person in the song) to hold on. This blend of hope and urgency adds emotional depth, making the listener feel the weight of the situation.

Verse 2

I should be crying, but I just can't let it show
I should be hoping, but I can't stop thinking
Of all those things I should've said
That I never said

Here, the speaker wrestles with their emotions. There's a deep sense of regret for things left unsaid. The conflict between wanting to cry and feeling unable to show it reveals vulnerability. It’s relatable; many people struggle with expressing their feelings, especially in tough times. This verse captures that internal struggle perfectly.

Chorus

All the things we should've done
That we never did
All the things I should've given
But I didn't

This chorus continues the theme of regret. It’s a list of missed opportunities and unfulfilled promises. The repetition emphasizes the weight of those thoughts, making it feel like a heavy burden the speaker carries. It’s a reminder that sometimes we realize too late what we truly value.

Bridge

Oh, darling, make it go
Make it go away
Give me these moments back
Give them back to me
Give me that little kiss
Give me your hand

In the bridge, there’s a longing for the past. The plea to “make it go away” speaks to the desire to escape pain. The request for moments back is a powerful expression of loss. It’s not just about wanting to relive good times, but also about the desire for connection and intimacy that feels lost in the current moment.

Chorus

I know you have a little life in you yet
I know you have a lot of strength left
I know you have a little life in you yet
I know you have a lot of strength left

The chorus returns, reinforcing the hopeful tone amidst the sadness. It’s like a lifeline thrown into turbulent waters. This repetition serves to comfort both the speaker and the listener, reminding them that there’s still potential for life and love.

Outro

I should be crying, but I just can't let it show
I should be hoping, but I can't stop thinking
Of all the things we should've said
That were never said
All the things we should've done
That we never did
All the things that you needed from me
All the things that you wanted for me
All the things I should've given
But I didn't
Oh, darling, make it go away
Just make it go away now

The outro brings us back to the emotional turmoil. The repetition of regret feels like a cycle that can’t be broken. The longing for connection remains strong, but the pain is palpable. It’s a bittersweet ending that leaves the listener reflecting on the weight of unexpressed feelings.

Closing Thoughts

“This Woman’s Work” is a beautifully poignant song that captures the rawness of human emotion. Kate Bush’s powerful lyrics connect deeply with anyone who’s faced loss or regret. The music and vocals amplify the feelings, making it a haunting yet hopeful piece that lingers long after it’s over. It reminds us of the importance of saying what we feel while we still can.